A new approach in the treatment of hydrocephalus

摘要: To date, most patients suffering from hydrocephalus have been treated by insertion of differential-pressure valves that fairly constant resistance. Since intracranial pressure (ICP) is a variable parameter (depending on such factors as patient’s position and rapid eye movement sleep) since cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) secretion almost constant, it may be assumed some shunt complications are related to too much or little CSF drainage. The authors suggest new approach treating hydrocephalus, the aim which provide drainage at below rate within physiological ICP range. This concept has led develop three-stage valve system. first stage consists medium-pressure low-resistance operates conventional until flow through reaches mean value 20 ml/hr. A second variable-resistance regulator maintains between 30 ml/hr differential pressures 80 350 mm H2O. third safety device above H2O (inducing increase in rate) therefore prevents hyper-elevated ICP. An vitro study described demonstrates capability this system maintain rates close production under range similar those observed various human postural conditions. Promising clinical results 19 shunted with summarized. During time writing abstract, available for sale Europe 1 year good results.