Shunts for hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus, commonly known as “water on the brain,” is an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles of the brain, leading to their enlargement and swelling. The increased intracranial pressure forces the brain against the skull, damaging or destroying the tissue.

A shunt is a small catheter (tube), which allows fluid to drain from the ventricles of the brain into the abdominal cavity. To place the shunt, a flap is cut in the scalp, after which a small hole is drilled in the skull to allow access to the ventricles. The other end of the shunt is tunneled under the skin of the scalp, behind the ear, down the neck and chest and into the peritoneal cavity (abdominal cavity).

The recovery time for this procedure is generally fairly short, with only two or three days' hospitalization needed. Follow-up may include CT scan to ensure proper positioning of the shunt.

A Patient's Story:

Sterling Turner is an active, 80-year old retired minister who began experiencing symptoms of normal pressure hydrocephalous . CT and MRI scans confirmed hydrocephalus, and Dr. Reid performed a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt procedure at University Hospital .

Sterling 's symptoms improved rapidly following surgery, and is now walking daily for exercise and has resumed teaching his Sunday School class.

Sterling says, “It was remarkable; the first time I walked after surgery, I could tell the difference. I feel more alert, and now I can get around and do the things I enjoy.”

CT scan showing ventricular drainage catheter and reduction of ventricular size.