How do you treat hydrocephalus? Treatment will be necessary if the ventricles continue to expand and the head circumference grows too fast. Your baby will be evaluated after birth for the need of a shunt. If a shunt is deemed necessary, your baby will need surgery.
Full Answer
What is hydrocephalus and how to treat it in infants?
The baby develops massive swelling of the brain due to the retention of surplus cerebrospinal fluid. And, the disconcerting swelling holds the potential to damage the brain eventually. The only treatment for hydrocephalus in infants is surgery followed by regular check-ups.
Can a child with hydrocephalus live a normal life?
It can be present at birth (congenital) or occur after birth (acquired). Pediatric hydrocephalus can be damaging if left untreated, but with early diagnosis and treatment, children with hydrocephalus can often lead normal, healthy lives.
What is the nursing plan for a 6 year old with hydrocephalus?
The nurse has developed a nursing plan for the care of a 6-year-old girl with congenital hydrocephalus whose shunt has become infected. The most important discharge teaching point for this family is: ensuring the parents know how to properly give antibiotics.
Can hydrocephalus be diagnosed before birth?
The timing of diagnosing a child with hydrocephalus can depend on how severe the symptoms are, when problems appear, and whether there were major risk factors for hydrocephalus during the pregnancy or delivery. In some cases, hydrocephalus can be diagnosed at birth or before birth.
How is hydrocephalus treated in newborns?
The most common treatment for hydrocephalus is a medical device called a shunt, a flexible tube, which is placed in the ventricular system of the brain and connected to a valve. A small hole called a burrhole is made in the skull and the tube is gently guided through the brain to the fluid-filled ventricles.
What is the treatment for hydrocephalus in the child?
The most common hydrocephalus treatment is a shunt, a small piece of silicone tubing placed surgically inside the body to bypass a blockage or otherwise create a better flow of cerebrospinal fluid. The shunt allows for fluid to flow through it in one direction.
What is the most common treatment for hydrocephalus?
The most common treatment for hydrocephalus is the surgical insertion of a drainage system, called a shunt. It consists of a long, flexible tube with a valve that keeps fluid from the brain flowing in the right direction and at the proper rate. One end of the tubing is usually placed in one of the brain's ventricles.
How is congenital hydrocephalus treated?
Both congenital and acquired hydrocephalus are treated with either shunt surgery or neuroendoscopy.Shunt surgery. During shunt surgery, a thin tube called a shunt is implanted in your brain. ... Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) ... Normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH)
What happens when a baby has hydrocephalus?
The impact of hydrocephalus on a newborn is somewhat unpredictable and can vary in severity. Because it injures the brain, children with hydrocephalus may have epilepsy, learning disabilities, short-term memory loss, problems with coordination, vision problems, and early onset of puberty.
Can hydrocephalus be cured in infants?
In severe cases, untreated hydrocephalus may result in nerve damage, vision loss and even death. However, with prompt diagnosis and treatment, many infants and children with hydrocephalus are able to successfully manage their condition and lead long, healthy lives.
What causes hydrocephalus in infants?
There is no one cause for the type of hydrocephalus babies are born with. It may be linked to a genetic defect or a complication of another disorder, such as spina bifida or encephaloceles. Children may also develop hydrocephalus after birth as a complication of: premature birth.
Can NPH be treated without surgery?
Although there isn't a cure for NPH, the symptoms can be managed through surgery. Surgery involves inserting a drainage system called a shunt.
Does a shunt cure hydrocephalus?
Overview. Although there is currently no cure for hydrocephalus, a shunt, like those from Medtronic, can help relieve some of the symptoms of the condition.
Is congenital hydrocephalus curable?
Hydrocephalus has no cure, but there are treatments that allow those affected to lead fairly normal lives with the condition. In some cases, it is possible for the blockage that is causing the fluid to build in the brain to be surgically removed.
Can hydrocephalus be treated with drugs?
There is little use for medication in hydrocephalus. In some acquired cases, as with tumors and infections, resolving the underlying condition will resolve the hydrocephalus, but most patients still require surgical intervention.
How to tell if a baby has hydrocephalus?
In an infant, the most obvious sign of hydrocephalus is an abnormal enlargement of the baby’s head. The soft spot on the top of the head (fontanel) may be tense and bulging. The scalp may appear thin and glistening, and the scalp veins may appear to have unnatural fullness (prominence) as well.
What causes congenital hydrocephalus?
The most common causes are: Intraventricular hemorrhage (brain bleed), commonly as a complication of prematurity.
What is hydrocephalus in the brain?
Hydrocephalus is an abnormal accumulation of fluid in cavities called ventricles inside the brain.
What is HCRN research?
The Hydrocephalus Clinical Research Network (HCRN) is a network of children’s hospitals that conduct clinical research to improve treatment and care for babies and children with hydrocephalus.
How long can you go without a shunt?
While some people can go 20 years or more without a complication, with a complex condition like hydrocephalus, things can change quickly, therefore it’s critical to be prepared.
What is the best treatment for hydrocephalus?
The most common treatment for hydrocephalus is a medical device called a shunt, a flexible tube, which is placed in the ventricular system of the brain and connected to a valve. A small hole called a burrhole is made in the skull and the tube is gently guided through the brain to the fluid-filled ventricles.
What are the conditions that can be diagnosed with hydrocephalus?
Also, in addition to hydrocephalus, some infants may be diagnosed with other medical conditions including but not limited to seizures, cortical visual impairment, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, dandy walker, and Chiari malformation, among others.
When is hydrocephalus diagnosed?
In some cases, hydrocephalus may be diagnosed at birth or prior to birth.
What is the best test for hydrocephalus?
Brain imaging. Imaging tests can help diagnose hydrocephalus and identify underlying causes of the symptoms. These tests may include: Ultrasound. Ultrasound imaging, which uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images, is often used for an initial assessment for infants because it's a relatively simple, low-risk procedure.
What is the procedure to drain cerebrospinal fluid from the brain?
A shunt drains excess cerebrospinal fluid from the brain to another part of the body, such as the abdomen, where it can be more easily absorbed. The most common treatment for hydrocephalus is the surgical insertion of a drainage system, called a shunt.
Why does a shunt stop draining cerebrospinal fluid?
Shunt systems can stop draining cerebrospinal fluid or poorly regulate drainage because of mechanical malfunctions, blockage or infections. Complications of ventriculostomy include bleeding and infections. Any failure requires prompt attention, surgical revisions or other interventions.
Where is the cerebrospinal fluid absorbed?
The tubing is then tunneled under the skin to another part of the body where the excess cerebrospinal fluid can be more easily absorbed — such as the abdomen or a chamber in the heart. People who have hydrocephalus usually need a shunt system for the rest of their lives, and regular monitoring is required.
What is the best way to help a child develop social skills?
Occupational therapist, who specializes in therapy to develop everyday skills. Developmental therapist, who specializes in therapy to help your child develop age-appropriate behaviors, social skills and interpersonal skills. Mental health provider, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist.
Why is it important to have a well baby?
These visits are an opportunity for your child's doctor to monitor your child's development in key areas, including: Head size, rate of head growth and overall body growth. Muscle strength and tone.
Why do babies get hydrocephalus?
In some babies the condition is genetic, such as in babies with congenital aqueductal stenosis.
How to diagnose hydrocephalus?
Hydrocephalus may be diagnosed before birth by prenatal ultrasound, a diagnostic imaging technique which uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs. Ultrasounds are used to view internal organs as they function, and to assess blood flow through various vessels.
What is hydrocephalus in the brain?
What is hydrocephalus? Hydrocephalus is a condition in which there is excessive fluid in and around the brain. It occurs from a lack of absorption, blockage of flow, or overproduction of the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) that's made inside the ventricles. The ventricles are fluid-filled areas of the brain.
What is the procedure to drain hydrocephalus fluid?
Surgery may be needed for some cases of hydrocephalus. Surgery usually involves placing a mechanical shunting device into the baby's head to help drain the extra CSF from the brain and redirect the extra fluid to another part of the body to be absorbed. A common type of shunt is the ventriculoperitoneal shunt.
What is the ventricle?
The ventricles are fluid-filled areas of the brain. The CSF disperses from the ventricles around the brain and spinal cord. Too much CSF may result in a buildup of fluid that can cause the pressure inside of the head to increase.
What is the goal of CSF treatment?
Your opinion or preference. The goal of treatment is to reduce the pressure in the baby's head and to properly drain the cerebral spinal fluid (CS F).
How does hydrocephalus affect the brain?
Hydrocephalus can affect the brain and a baby's development. The extent of the problem is dependent on the severity of the hydrocephalus, and the presence of brain or other organ system problems. The key to treating hydrocephalus is early detection, proper treatment, and prevention of infection.
What is the process called when a doctor confirms hydrocephalus in the fetus?
They will assess and comment on the brain development of the growing fetus. Amniocentesis: If a doctor confirms hydrocephalus in the fetus, a second assessment might be needed through the process called amniocentesis. This depends on the possible cause of the hydrocephalus.
How to treat hydrocephalus in infants?
The only treatment for hydrocephalus in infants is surgery followed by regular check-ups. Most parents have limited information on the condition and the fundamental reasons behind it. MomJunction helps you understand hydrocephalus, its symptoms, prognosis, and treatment.
Why does hydrocephalus affect babies?
The baby develops massive swelling of the brain due to the retention of surplus cerebrospinal fluid. And, the disconcerting swelling holds the potential to damage the brain eventually. The only treatment for hydrocephalus in infants is surgery followed by regular ...
What is the condition where cerebrospinal fluid remains in the cavities of the brain?
Hydrocephalus is a condition where excess cerebrospinal fluid remains in the cavities of the brain, causing the brain and skull to swell. Cerebrospinal fluid, or CSF, is a clear liquid that circulates within the nervous system to provide nourishment and cushion the brain and spinal cord ( 1 ).
What is the swelling of the head?
Unusual swelling of the head: It is the first and earliest sign of hydrocephalus in infants. The top of the skull will increase in diameter. The skull would expand, and a bulging, tense, soft spot can be felt right at the top of the head.
What is benign external hydrocephalus?
Benign external hydrocephalus, also known as external hydrocephalus, is the enlargement of the subarachnoid spaces, which is tissue-filled space around the brain. The engorgement of the arachnoid spaces causes the brain to swell and the skull to expand. However, there is little to no increase in the ventricle size. Also, there is no impact on the flow of the CSF. The condition is self-limiting, resolves within a few years, and seldom causes complications unlike true hydrocephalus ( 9 ). Infants with the condition do not show any adverse symptoms, and no treatment is required ( 10 ). Therefore the disorder is different from hydrocephalus and should not be confused with it.
Why would a newborn develop hydrocephalus?
In this case, a newborn would be healthy at birth but would develop hydrocephalus later due to any of the below-mentioned reasons: Intraventricular hemorrhage: Bleeding happens within the brain causing the blood to flow into the ventricles, mix with the CSF, and increase the fluid pressure.
What is the cause of hydrocephalus in children?
Children with hydrocephalus. Pediatric hydrocephalus is a condition caused by an excessive buildup of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. CSF is a clear fluid that surrounds and cushions the brain and spinal cord, protecting them from injury. When the fluid builds up in the brain, it can cause increased pressure within the head.
How to tell if you have hydrocephalus in your baby?
The most common sign of hydrocephalus in an infant is typically a large head or firm, bulging fontanelles. Signs or symptoms of hydrocephalus in infancy may include: Bulging fontanelles (soft spots between the bones) A large head circumference or a rapid increase in head growth. Swollen veins on the scalp.
What is the most common cause of brain surgery in children?
Hydrocephalus is the most common reason for brain surgery in children. Treatment for hydrocephalus varies based on the age of the child and the cause of the hydrocephalus. The most common treatment options are placement of a shunt or performing a third ventriculostomy.
Why does hydrocephalus occur?
Hydrocephalus can occur for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, it is caused by an overproduction of CSF and other times, it may be due to the body’s inability to drain or reabsorb the fluid. It can be present at birth (congenital) or occur after birth (acquired). Pediatric hydrocephalus can be damaging if left untreated, ...
What is the surgical option for CSF blockage?
Another surgical option is an endoscopic third ventriculostomy. It is helpful for patients that have a blockage of CSF. In this surgery, a small opening is made in the bottom of the third ventricle, allowing the CSF to leave the brain by a different route.
Where does CSF go in the brain?
Typically, CSF circulates through the brain within ventricles, which are the normal fluid-filled spaces in the brain. There are two lateral ventricles that drain into a third ventricle and then into a fourth ventricle. From there, the CSF surrounds the spinal cord and brain.
How many people in the US have hydrocephalus?
According to the Hydrocephalus Association, one to two of every 1,000 babies born in the U.S. will have hydrocephalus and more than one million people in the U.S. are currently living with hydrocephalus.
When do babies go home with hydrocephalus?
Your baby will go home when he or she is eating and tolerating enough food to grow and gain weight. A baby with simple hydrocephalus that requires shunt placement may be home within 2 weeks. If your baby has any other complicating defects, his or her stay will be prolonged according to the severity of those anomalies.
What percentage of children with hydrocephalus have motor disabilities?
Most children with simple hydrocephalus (no associated anomalies) that is diagnosed and treated early will function normally. Approximately 75 percent of children with hydrocephalus will have some form of motor disability. Many will have some type of learning disability.
What causes hydrocephalus?
The major causes of hydrocephalus include: 1 The flow of cerebral spinal fluid is blocked 2 Abnormal circulation of cerebral spinal fluid causes inadequate absorption by the membranes covering the brain 3 The brain size is small (cerebral atrophy or there is a localized injury), and the fluid volume appears large as it fills in space 4 Very rarely, it may be inherited
Why does hydrocephalus increase head size?
This is because the cerebral spinal fluid is filling in space from damage caused to the brain from the infection or injury.
What is the name of the fluid that drains through the brain and spinal cord?
The brain and spinal cord are surrounded by cerebral spinal fluid. Small chambers in the brain are called ventricles. Normally, cerebral spinal fluid is produced primarily in the two lateral ventricles. Then, the cerebral spinal fluid drains through the third and fourth ventricles and is circulated around the brain and spinal cord.
What is the term for the fluid that backs up in the ventricles?
This cerebral spinal fluid acts as a cushion for the brain and is reabsorbed by the membrane covering the brain. With hydrocephalus, the cerebral spinal fluid backs up in the ventricles, causing them to expand and push on the surrounding brain. This increased size in the ventricles may be referred to as ventriculomegaly.
How often should a baby's shunt be replaced?
As your baby grows, the shunt will need to be replaced approximately every 2 to 4 years.
What is a child who has seizures admitted to the hospital for?
A child who has been having seizures is admitted to the hospital for diagnostic testing. The child has had laboratory testing and an EEG, and is scheduled for a lumbar puncture. The parents voice concern to the nurse stating, "I don't understand why our child had to have a lumbar puncture since the EEG was negative.".
What does the nurse ask a 7 year old child about an earache?
When the nurse asks where it hurts, the child points to the jawline in front of the earlobe. What does the nurse expect the diagnosis will be for this child?
What is the role of a nurse in a child's eye?
Assess the child's ability to convey information. The nurse is teaching a group of parents about eyes and eye concerns. The nurse tells these caregivers about a condition that occurs when unequal curvatures in the cornea bend the light rays in different directions and this causes images to be blurred.
What is the treatment for leukemia in children?
A child is to receive an oral corticosteroid as part of the treatment regimen for leukemia. After teaching the child and family about this drug, the nurse determines the need for additional teaching when they state: "We should administer the drug on an empty stomach.".
What is dexamethasone used for?
Dexamethasone is often prescribed for the child who has sustained a severe head injury. Dexamethasone is a (n): steroid. The nurse is providing education to the parents of a 2-year-old boy with hydrocephalus who has just had a ventriculoperitoneal shunt placed.
What is the diagnosis of an 8 year old child?
An 8-year-old child is diagnosed as having tonic-clonic seizures. The nurse would want to teach the parents that: their child should maintain an active lifestyle. A 9-year-old boy is suffering from headaches but has no signs of physical or neurologic illness.
What are the stages of infectious disease?
A nursing instructor has presented a class on the stages of an infectious disease to a group of students and asks the students to place the stages in their proper sequence from beginning to end. Place the stages in their proper sequence. 1.Incubation. 2.Prodrome.
Diagnosis
- A diagnosis of hydrocephalus is usually based on: 1. Your answers to the doctor's questions about signs and symptoms 2. A general physical exam 3. A neurological exam 4. Brain-imaging tests
Clinical Trials
- Explore Mayo Clinic studiestesting new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition.
Coping and Support
- With the help of rehabilitative therapies and educational interventions, many people with hydrocephalus live with few limitations. There are many resources available to provide emotional and medical support as you parent a child with hydrocephalus. Children with developmental problems due to hydrocephalus might be eligible for government-sponsored health care and oth…
Preparing For Your Appointment
- The timing of diagnosing a child with hydrocephalus can depend on how severe the symptoms are, when problems appear, and whether there were major risk factors for hydrocephalus during the pregnancy or delivery. In some cases, hydrocephalus can be diagnosed at birth or before birth.