Hydrocephalus.
Conditions
Hydrocephalus is a condition where there is a fluid build-up in the cavities or ventricles, within the brain. The excess fluid puts pressure on the brain by increasing the size of the ventricles. Cerebrospinal fluid is the fluid that flows through the ventricles and bathes the brain and spinal column, but too much pressure from excessive cerebrospinal fluid may damage the brain tissues which will then cause a range of impairments in the functioning of the brain.
There are different types of hydrocephalus, namely:
Normal-pressure hydrocephalus
Normal-pressure hydrocephalus occurs when there is an accumulation of the cerebrospinal fluid which then causes the ventricles in the brain to become enlarged, with little or no increase in the intracranial pressure.
Congenital hydrocephalus
Congenital hydrocephalus is caused by an infection that may be present in the mother during pregnancy. The infection might be rubella or mumps, or a birth defect such as spina bifida that is inherited by the child whilst in the womb.
Acquired hydrocephalus
Acquired hydrocephalus is a condition that may occur during birth, after a stroke, brain tumour, and meningitis or could be resulting from a serious head injury.
Hydrocephalus may be fatal if left untreated. Dr Timakia may recommend surgery to restore the normal flow of the cerebrospinal fluid. Dr Timakia may explore either of the following surgical procedures:
Shunt insertion
The shunt is a long tube with a valve that is used as a drainage system. The shunt helps the cerebrospinal fluid to flow normally at a normal rate and in the right direction. The end of the shunt will be inserted in your brain, and the other end will be inserted in the chest or the abdominal cavity where the fluid will be drained from the brain to the other end of the tube where it will be easily absorbed.
Ventriculostomy
Ventriculostomy is a procedure where a hole is open at the bottom of a ventricle or in between the ventricles. This will allow the cerebrospinal fluid to leave the brain.
Hydrocephalus may occur at any age, although it is more frequent amongst infants and adults who are 60 years and over. Surgical treatment for hydrocephalus is performed to mainly restore and maintain normal cerebrospinal fluid levels in the brain, and to prevent further brain damage.
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