Best Doctors for Hydrocephalus in Lucknow

Types/Stages of Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus can be classified into different stages and types based on its severity and underlying causes:

• Communicating Hydrocephalus: This type occurs when CSF flows freely within the ventricles, but absorption into the bloodstream is impaired, often at the level of the arachnoid villi.

• Non-Communicating Hydrocephalus: This type occurs when the flow of CSF is blocked along one or more narrow passages connecting the ventricles.

• Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH): Commonly seen in older adults, NPH does not cause increased intracranial pressure but leads to a gradual build-up of CSF.

• Post-Shunt Hydrocephalus: This type occurs following a procedure to insert a shunt (a tube that drains excess CSF), but due to malfunctioning or blockage of the shunt.

Symptoms of Hydrocephalus

The symptoms of hydrocephalus differ based on age, disease progression, and individual health factors. They may include:

• Increased intracranial pressure: This leads to headaches, nausea, and vomiting.

• Cognitive impairment: This includes memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and personality changes.

• Vision problems: Blurred vision, double vision, or loss of vision.

• Physical symptoms: Difficulty in walking or poor balance and coordination.

• Speech and language difficulties: Problems in speaking, understanding speech, or reading.

Tests to Diagnose Hydrocephalus

Diagnostic tests for hydrocephalus are chosen according to the patient’s age, symptoms, and the suspected cause of the condition. These tests may involve specialists in cerebral shunt procedures:

• Cranial Ultrasound: A safe, non-invasive test used especially for infants as their skull bones have not fully formed and closed.

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI provides detailed images of the brain, offering a comprehensive view of the CSF pathways.

• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: This is a quick and painless test to detect hydrocephalus.

• Neurological Examination: Evaluates cognition, motor function, vision, and coordination to assess the impact of hydrocephalus on brain function.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Hydrocephalus at Apollo Hospitals in Lucknow

The treatment approach for hydrocephalus is tailored based on the patient’s overall health, age, and type of hydrocephalus. At Apollo Hospitals in Lucknow, we offer:

• Shunting procedures: A shunt system (a flexible plastic tube) is inserted into the brain to divert the flow of CSF to another area of the body where it can be absorbed.

• Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV): A hole is created in the floor of the brain’s third ventricle, allowing CSF to bypass an obstruction and flow towards the subarachnoid space, where it can be absorbed.

• Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting (VPS): This involves the placement of a shunt that drains CSF from the brain’s ventricles and directs it into the peritoneal cavity (abdomen) allowing it to absorb the fluid.

Our team of doctors specialising in brain swelling treatment and brain ventricle enlargement are dedicated to providing the best possible care, bringing relief and improving the quality of life for patients.