What is hydrocephalus?

Hydrocephalus refers to abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the ventricle of the brain, which often exerts pressure on the brain.

What is a Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus?

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) is a form of hydrocephalus where the pressure of cerebrospinal fluid itself is not increased. It is found in six percent of people diagnosed with dementia. NPH is often considered a "reversible" form of dementia as early diagnosis and treatment can reverse permanent brain injury and disability.


What symptoms are there with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus?

Normal pressure hydrocephalus usually occurs in elderly patients. In general, its symptoms include slowing of movements and cognitive deficits such as mental impairment and dementia. Because the symptoms of NPH resemble those of Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, it is often incorrectly diagnosed.


How is a normal pressure hydrocephalus treated?

The preferred treatment for NPH is to insert a shunt inside the brain to drain excess CSF. However, to identify a patient as a candidate for the procedure, a trial removal of CSF may be done and observed over several days. If the condition of the patient improves significantly after a trial, along with a variety of clinical factors and judgment, the decision may be made to perform the permanent shunt.

Are there complications with a shunt system?

Complications of a shunt insertion may include mechanical failure, infections, overdraining and underdraining. However, the risk of these complications is reduced by the introduction of new tools, such as neuroendoscope and programmable valves. Neuroendoscope is a small instrument that ensures the precise placement of a shunt system. Programmable valves prevent accidental reprogramming of the shunt system after the procedure. With these advances, close monitoring and regular medical follow up, the risk of the procedure can be greatly reduced.