It may even be possible to program the pump, also called a valve, to activate when the fluid increases to a certain volume. The pump will automatically activate to remove fluid when the pressure in the skull increases. Your surgeon may attach a tiny pump to both catheters and place it under the skin behind your ear. This tube travels down to your chest and abdomen, allowing excess CSF to drain into the abdominal cavity, where your body absorbs it. The other catheter goes behind your ear and is subcutaneous, meaning it resides under the skin. They will then thread one catheter into the brain through this opening. A surgeon will make a tiny incision behind the ear and will also drill a small hole in the skull. Catheters are thin, flexible tubes used to drain excess fluid. The surgical nurse will shave the area behind your ear in preparation for shunting, as this is where they will place the catheter. In all cases, these instructions should be reviewed with your surgical team. Infants and toddlers may only need to stop eating baby formula and solid foods six hours before surgery, but they can usually drink water until four hours before the scheduled procedure. Older children and adults may need to fast for at least eight hours prior to surgery. Speak to your medical care team about preoperative food and drink restrictions. The entire procedure takes about 90 minutes. You’ll be asleep during the surgery and won’t experience pain. Testing will show if areas of the brain contain more fluid than normal.ĭoctors typically perform the placement of a VP shunt while a patient is under general anesthesia. Ultrasound, CT scans, and MRI scans allow doctors to view the cavities and tissues within the brain. Imaging tests can confirm the diagnosis of hydrocephalus. Cysts, tumors, or inflammation in the brain can impede the normal flow of CSF and create an unsafe accumulation. blockages preventing fluid from flowing throughout the brainīlockages are the most common cause of hydrocephalus.poor absorption of CSF by the blood vessels.The National Institute for Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) estimates that 1 to 2 of every 1,000 babies are born with hydrocephalus.Įxcess fluid can build up around the brain for a number of reasons, including: However, according to the Mayo Clinic, hydrocephalus is more likely to occur in babies and older adults. People of any age can develop hydrocephalus and therefore require a VP shunt.
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