Review of the treatment & management of hydrocephalus

In hydrocephalus, a disease or anatomical defect causes an increase in the amount of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) present in the cranium, which most commonly results in increased pressure against the brain tissue. Hydrocephalus is difficult to diagnose because of its varied signs and symptoms, which commonly overlap with those of other medical conditions. There are generally two approaches to the treatment of hydrocephalus: 1) shunt placement and 2) endoscopic third ventriculostomy (surgical creation of an opening in the floor of the third ventricle to enable the passage of CSF). The treatment of hydrocephalus often requires long-term care and lifelong follow-up, especially in children and neonates in whom there is a congenital cause.