Medical Health Encyclopedia

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Skull of a newborn
Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention
Hydrocephalus
Alternative Names: Water on the brain Treatment: The goal is to reduce or prevent brain damage by improving the flow of CSF. Text Continues Below Surgery is the main treatment. The obstruction may be surgically removed, if possible. If the obstruction cannot be removed, a shunt may be placed within the brain to allow CSF to bypass the obstructed area. Shunting CSF to an area outside the brain (such as the right atrium of the heart or the abdominal peritoneum) is an alternative to shunting within the brain. Removing or cauterizing (destroying by burning) the parts of the brain that produce CSF may (theoretically) reduce CSF production. Antibiotics are usually used aggressively with any sign of infection. Severe infections may require the shunt to be removed. Follow-up examinations generally continue throughout the child's life to evaluate the child's developmental level and to treat any intellectual, neurologic, or physical problems. Visiting nurses, social services, support groups, and local agencies can provide emotional support and assist with the care of the child with hydrocephalus who has significant brain damage. Expectations (prognosis): Untreated hydrocephalus has a 50-60% death rate, with the survivors having varying degrees of intellectual, physical, and neurologic disabilities. The outlook for treated hydrocephalus varies, depending on the cause. If the child survives for 1 year, more than 80% will have a fairly normal life span. Approximately one-third will have normal intellectual function, but neurologic difficulties may persist. Page:  1 | 2 | Next >>