Pediatric Neurosurgery To Treat Hydrocephalus

Looking for information on pediatric neurosurgery for children with hydrocephalus? Read on to learn more about this type of treatment. Hydrocephalus is a brain condition that almost always requires neurosurgery. When this condition affects a pediatric patient, it is especially concerning because the build-up of fluid creates an immense amount of pressure on the brain. In pediatric cases, it may be difficult to even detect hydrocephalus due to the age of the patient. Babies and infants are not able to express pressure or pain in the brain, which oftentimes results in more serious cases, thus creating a serious need for pediatric neurosurgery.

An overview of pediatric neurosurgery for hydrocephalus treatment

Below is a quick overview of hydrocephalus and how it is typically treated by a pediatric neurosurgeon. Reviewing this information can be helpful to parents who have a child suffering from the condition.

Endoscopically

In pediatric neurosurgery, the endoscopic approach is one that is less invasive than a shunt placement (see below). It is usually recommended for less severe cases of hydrocephalus. During the procedure, the pediatric neurosurgeon will create a small incision at the base of the child's brain. Then, the choroid plexus is reduced to lessen the amount of brain fluid produced.

Shunt placement

For more severe cases of hydrocephalus, a pediatric neurosurgeon might recommend a shunt placement. This type of procedure involves the insertion of small tubing that redirects cerebrospinal fluid to other parts of the body, instead of the brain. Shunt placement is generally good for pediatric patients because it immediately relieves pressure, however, it is very likely that later on, additional surgical procedures will be required. In some cases, the shunt may simply need to be replaced. In other cases, as the hydrocephalus progresses, more aggressive treatments might be required.

What else to know

It can be extremely frightening to know that a child has a brain condition like hydrocephalus. Oftentimes, it will induce anxiety in the parents, but it is important to know that pediatric neurosurgeons undergo extensive training to appropriately support parents as they go through the treatment process for their children. The utmost support will be provided to both the parents and child throughout the entire process.

Additionally, it is also important to know that each hydrocephalus case is treated differently. It is all very dependent on the child, including their health history, the severity of the condition, and even the age of the patient. With that being said, the procedures listed above may apply, but other forms of treatment may also be required too.

Ready to schedule a pediatric neurosurgery consultation?

When hydrocephalus is a concern, parents should start the consultation process immediately. During this appointment, a thorough evaluation can be performed to determine how severe the hydrocephalus is. From there, the pediatric neurosurgeon can make a determination about what type of treatment is most suitable. Parents can also ask questions or go over any concerns that they have. To find out more about hydrocephalus treatment or to get scheduled, contact us today.

Get more information here: https://www.drloudonpediatricneurosurgery.com or call Dr. William G. Loudon, Pediatric Neurosurgery at (714) 677-9463

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