Hydrocephalus
The multidisciplinary team at Orlando Health Neuroscience Institute understands the difficulties and uncertainty that hydrocephalus can create for your family. Our compassionate caregivers will work with you to develop a treatment plan based on the unique needs of you or your child. Our specialized neurosurgeons offer the latest in surgical options for treating hydrocephalus. We also offer a full-service support team, including pediatric neurologists and therapists, to help you or your child manage the illness and achieve the best possible outcome.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis begins with a physical examination by your doctor, who will ask about current symptoms and your (or your child’s) medical history. This visit will likely include an age-specific neurological exam to assess coordination, muscle condition and general well-being. From there, the doctor may suggest a range of diagnostic options, including:
These scanners use multiple X-ray images compiled with the help of a computer to create highly detailed 3D images of the brain.
Your doctor uses a noninvasive device to examine the optic nerve at the back of your eye.
Your surgeon temporarily inserts a small sensor into your brain to measure cerebrospinal fluid pressure.
Powerful magnets and radio waves are used to create detailed images of the brain. The images can show ventricles that have become enlarged by fluid buildup. They may also help pinpoint the cause of the hydrocephalus.
Your doctor will withdraw a sample of cerebrospinal fluid from your spine for testing.
Sound waves are used to produce images of the brain. This test is commonly used as an initial option for infants.
Treatment
Unfortunately, hydrocephalus is a life-threatening condition that can only be treated through brain surgery. The earlier it can be diagnosed, the better the chances are for a strong recovery. Our team of multidisciplinary specialists offers the most advanced treatment options available, along with a full range of services to help you or your child manage ongoing symptoms.
There are two types of brain surgery used to treat hydrocephalus:
This is an option available for some patients. The surgeon makes a small hole in or near one of the brain’s ventricles. This hole allows cerebrospinal fluid to drain out of the brain.
This most common form of treatment uses a long, thin tube (shunt) to drain excess fluid from your brain to another part of your body, where it can be absorbed. Typically, one end of the drainage tube is placed in one of your brain’s ventricles. The tube then runs under the skin to an exit point in the abdomen or a heart chamber. The drainage system is generally a permanent solution, requiring regular monitoring by your doctor.
Our team participates in clinical trials that can offer our patients early access to promising surgical techniques and therapies for hydrocephalus.
Following surgery, it is not uncommon for patients – particularly children – to need additional care or treatment to help with long-term complications. Our team includes a diverse group of specialists, including:
- Pediatric neurologist
- Occupational therapist, to help with everyday skills
- Developmental therapist, to help your child with age-appropriate behaviors and social skills
- Psychologist or psychiatrist
- Social worker, to assist with needed services and planning for transitions in care
Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children Neurosurgery provides advanced care for children of all ages, from birth through adulthood. With the largest group of pediatric neurosurgeons in Central Florida and more than 40 years of experience, our neurosurgical team offers leading-edge surgical procedures and surgical management for a wide range of neurological disorders.
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