The skull contains a fluid called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This fluid is found around and inside the brain in cavities called brain ventricles. It is continuously secreted and reabsorbed by the nervous system.
What is hydrocephalus?
In some situations, production of CSF is increased, or absorption is decreased. This results in a phenomenon called hydrocephalus. This group of pathologies can be treated in various ways, for example by using a ventriculoperitoneal bypass (CSF deflection), a ventriculocisternostomy (CSF drainage), etc.
Symptoms and causes
Hydrocephalus can have several causes: congenital, acquired following an infection, head trauma, hemorrhage, or a brain tumor. Its symptoms vary depending on age and the severity of the condition. In adults, gait disturbances, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and persistent headaches are common.
Hydrocephalus can have various causes. The symptoms and causes are also common to other pathologies. This is why our team works closely with the Neurology Division to offer highly specialized treatment.
Surgical treatments
Treatment for hydrocephalus involves procedures to restore normal CSF flow, such as:
- Ventriculoperitoneal shunt: A drainage system redirects fluid to the abdomen for reabsorption by the body.
- Endoscopic ventriculocisternostomy: A minimally invasive technique that creates an opening in the ventricles to facilitate CSF drainage.
LEARN MORE: The Neurosurgery Division specializes in other brain surgery procedures, including vascular neurosurgery, epilepsy, pituitary gland disorders, hydrocephalus, functional disorders, and traumatic brain injuries. The division also offers advanced techniques such as transcranial magnetic stimulation brain mapping.