Shunt and endoscopic (ETV) options for cerebrospinal fluid circulation disorders — pediatric, adult and normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH).
Dr. Özgür Akşan · Neurosurgery · İzmir, Türkiye
Send your MRI / CT and we will review the situation together — a second opinion is welcome.
Hydrocephalus is an excess of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricles. It presents differently by age and cause; the right treatment is decided individually for each patient.
May be congenital or acquired. In infants, a head circumference growing faster than expected, a tense fontanelle or increased irritability warrants evaluation.
Raised pressure from blocked cerebrospinal fluid flow (tumor, post-hemorrhage, a narrow congenital channel) may present with headache, nausea, and visual or balance problems.
In older adults, gait disturbance, urinary difficulty and forgetfulness may appear together. It can be mistaken for dementia and needs a distinct assessment.
A ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is a broadly applicable option for most types of hydrocephalus and is followed for valve setting, blockage and infection. Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) is considered in selected obstructive cases with suitable anatomy and aims to avoid a permanent shunt. Neither approach is universally “better”; the right choice depends on the type of hydrocephalus, the patient’s age and imaging. This page is for general information and does not replace a medical consultation.
Neurosurgeon
Experienced in shunt and endoscopic (ETV) approaches to hydrocephalus, with a realistic, case-specific assessment in pediatric and adult patients before any treatment decision.