Surgery to repair hydrocephalus, typically involving the placement of a shunt, is generally aimed at alleviating pressure on the brain and preventing further damage. While any surgical procedure carries risks, including potential complications that could impact brain function, the goal is to improve overall outcomes. In most cases, the benefits of reducing intracranial pressure outweigh the risks, and many patients experience significant improvements in symptoms and quality of life. However, individual outcomes can vary based on factors such as the patient's age, the underlying cause of hydrocephalus, and overall health.
Hydrocephalus results when more fluid enters the brain than leaves. A blockage or swelling can stop fluid from draining. According to the NIH, The majority of cases of NPH are idiopathic (meaning of unknown cause). NPH can also develop as the result of a head injury, cranial surgery, subarachnoid hemorrhage, tumor or cysts, as well as subdural hematomas, bleeding during surgery, meningitis and other brain infections.
Alcohol itself does not directly cause hydrocephalus, which is the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain's ventricles. However, chronic alcohol abuse can lead to brain damage and other neurological conditions that may contribute to the development of hydrocephalus. Additionally, alcohol-related disorders during pregnancy, such as fetal alcohol syndrome, can affect brain development and potentially lead to complications, including hydrocephalus in the child. Overall, while alcohol is not a direct cause, its effects on the brain can increase the risk of conditions associated with hydrocephalus.
There is no alternative to surgical repair. Risk of infection and damage to the spine and brain is high with an opening to the spine, so surgery is necessary to close the opening and drain the excess fluid that could put pressure on the brain.
Hydrocephalus is a collection of fluid, it is not a tumor.
The definition of the word "hydrocephalus" is a medical condition in which fluids accumulate on the brain. The condition is sometimes referred to as "water on the brain".
Hydrocephalus ex vacuole means an enlargement of brain ventricles due to brain atrophy, e.g in Alzheimer disease.
Hydrocephalus ex vacuole means an enlargement of brain ventricles due to brain atrophy, e.g in Alzheimer disease.
Hydrocephalus is a brain disorder that is usually the result of another problem within the skull.
Hydrocephalus can cause learning impairment by putting pressure on the brain.
Conditions responsible for hydrocephalus in a fetus include infantile congenital (present at birth) hydrocephalus, hydrocephalus associated with encephalocele or myelomeningocele, posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus in newborns.
Brain atrophy
Hydrocephalus