Hydrocephalus

What Is Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is a medical condition characterized by the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the cavities (ventricles) of the brain

This excessive buildup of fluid can cause the ventricles to enlarge, leading to increased pressure on the brain tissue. The term “hydrocephalus” comes from the Greek words “hydro” meaning water and “cephalus” meaning head.

Symptoms of hydrocephalus can vary depending on the age of the individual and the rate of fluid buildup. In infants and young children, symptoms may include an enlarged head, rapid head growth, vomiting, sleepiness, irritability, and poor feeding

Hydrocephalus can be caused by:

Premature birth
Spina Bifida
An infection such as meningitis
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Brain cysts or tumours

Hydrocephalus can occur at any point in a persons life and is most common in babies and the elderly. The effects of Hydrocephalus can also evolve and change over a person’s life time.

How is Hydrocephalus Treated?

It is usually treated by the insertion of a Shunt. This can be a VP ( Ventriculoperitoneal ) or a VA ( Ventriculoatrial ) Shunt.

A VP Shunt drains the excess fluid into the stomach lining for reabsorbs while a VA drains into the atrium of the heart where it is then reabsorbed.

Failure of a shunt results in brain surgery.

Symptoms of a Shunt Failure

Symptoms can vary person to person but some common signs are:

Sunsetting eyes and an enlarged soft spot (in babies)
Drowsiness
Headaches
Vomiting
Dizziness
Seizures

Shunt Failure

Shunt failures can occur in 3 ways:

Malfunctions

Mechanical failure, obstructions, lengthen or replacement of catheter.

Drainage Problems

Over draining or Under draining.

Infection

Usually occur within 6 months of last revision or insertion.

SBHI Shunt Alert Card

SBHI provide Shunt alert cards to anyone who requires them. These cards fit comfortably in your wallet or pocket and contain space to fill out important information that is useful in emergencies.

If you would like us to send you out some cards please email njordan@sbhi.ie