Hydrocephalus, often referred to as “water on the brain,” is a condition where excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulates within the brain’s ventricles. This buildup increases pressure on the brain and can interfere with normal brain function.
Hydrocephalus can affect people at any age but is most common in infants, young children, and older adults. At Phalke Neuro, we specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of hydrocephalus, offering precise care supported by advanced neurosurgical and rehabilitative expertise.
Types & Causes of Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is broadly classified into:
- Congenital — present at birth, often due to structural brain abnormalities, genetic issues, or neural tube defects.
- Acquired — develops after birth from tumors, head injuries, infections such as meningitis, or bleeding in the brain.
- Communicating — CSF circulates between ventricles but is poorly absorbed.
- Non-communicating (Obstructive) — flow is blocked inside the ventricles, commonly at aqueducts .
- Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) — typically affects older adults with gradual onset of walking difficulty, urinary issues, and cognitive decline.
- Ex-vacuo Hydrocephalus — results when brain tissue shrinks, and CSF fills in the space (seen in Alzheimer’s/stroke)
Symptoms by Age Group
Infants & Young Children
- Enlarged head or rapid head growth
- Tense or bulging soft spot (fontanel)
- Vomiting, sleepiness, irritability
- Poor feeding, downward gaze (“sunset eyes”)
Older Children & Adults
- Headache, nausea, blurred vision
- Mood or cognitive changes
- Poor coordination or balance
- Urinary problems or behavioral changes
Older Adults (NPH)
- Walking difficulty (shuffling gait)
- Mild dementia or memory issues
- Loss of bladder control
Diagnosis
Diagnosing hydrocephalus involves:
- Clinical evaluation — neurological exam, medical history, and symptom review
- Imaging tests — MRI is preferred; CT scans are used in emergencies or children
- Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) — to measure CSF pressure; can also relieve symptoms temporarily
- CSF pressure monitoring through intracranial catheters in acute cases
- Fundoscopy — to detect optic nerve swelling from increased intracranial pressure
Treatment Options
1. Shunt Surgery
A device is implanted to drain excess CSF from the brain into another part of the body (usually the abdominal cavity), where it can be absorbed. While effective, shunts can sometimes malfunction or get infected, requiring regular monitoring.
2. Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV)
A minimally invasive neuroendoscopy creates a small opening in the third ventricle to allow CSF to bypass blockages and flow into the brain’s natural absorption pathways
Why Choose Phalke Neuro for Hydrocephalus Care?
- Specialized Neurological Expertise — focused care for all age groups, from pediatric to geriatric neurosurgery.
- Advanced Diagnostic Capabilities — including high-resolution imaging, CSF flow studies, and pressure monitoring.
- Multidisciplinary Approach — neurologists, neurosurgeons, pediatricians, and therapists collaborate to tailor care.
- Surgical Precision — expertise in shunt placement, endoscopic third ventriculostomy, and managing complex hydrocephalus scenarios.
- Comprehensive Follow-Up and Rehabilitation — ensuring long-term management, recovery, and support for families.