Skip to content
DIVINHEALSimplifying Global Wellbeing
HOME
TREATMENTS
HOSPITALS

Centres Of Excellence

Our Centres of Excellence bring together multidisciplinary teams to deliver precise diagnosis, advanced treatments, and superior outcomes across a wide spectrum of medical specialties.

Medical professionals in hospital setting

OVERVIEW

Understanding Hydrocephalus Surgery

Hydrocephalus, often referred to as 'water on the brain,' is a serious condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the brain's ventricles. This buildup can exert harmful pressure on brain tissues, leading to a range of neurological impairments if left untreated.

The primary goal of hydrocephalus surgery is to divert or reduce the excess CSF, thereby normalizing intracranial pressure and protecting brain function. This is typically achieved through procedures like the implantation of a shunt system or an Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV), tailored to the specific type and cause of hydrocephalus. DivinHeal connects you with top neurosurgery centers globally, ensuring access to cutting-edge techniques and compassionate care for effective hydrocephalus treatment.

PROCEDURE

Hydrocephalus surgery primarily involves either the insertion of a shunt system or an Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV). For shunt insertion, the patient is placed under general anesthesia. A small incision is made on the scalp, and a small hole (burr hole) is created in the skull. A thin, flexible catheter (ventricular catheter) is carefully guided into one of the brain's ventricles. Another small incision is made, usually behind the ear, where a one-way valve is secured under the skin. A second catheter (distal catheter) is then tunnelled under the skin down to another part of the body, most commonly the abdominal cavity (ventriculoperitoneal or VP shunt), but sometimes to the heart (ventriculoatrial or VA shunt) or lung cavity (ventriculopleural shunt). The valve regulates the flow of excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the brain, diverting it to where it can be absorbed by the body. For ETV, a small incision is made on the scalp, and a burr hole is created. A specialized endoscope, equipped with a camera and light, is inserted through the burr hole and guided into the brain's ventricular system. The neurosurgeon uses the endoscope to visualize the floor of the third ventricle and create a tiny opening, allowing CSF to bypass any obstruction and flow into the surrounding subarachnoid space for natural absorption. Both procedures aim to reduce intracranial pressure and restore normal CSF dynamics.

BENEFITS

Benefits of Hydrocephalus Surgery

  • Symptom Relief and Improved Quality of Life

    Successfully treated hydrocephalus significantly alleviates symptoms such as headaches, nausea, vision problems, balance issues, and cognitive decline, leading to a profound improvement in the patient's overall quality of life and functional independence.

  • Prevention of Brain Damage

    By normalizing intracranial pressure, surgery prevents further pressure-induced damage to delicate brain tissues, which is crucial for preserving cognitive function and neurological health.

  • Restored Normal Development (in children)

    For infants and young children, timely hydrocephalus surgery can prevent developmental delays and allow for more normal brain growth and cognitive development.

  • Reduced Risk of Complications

    Effective CSF management reduces the long-term risks associated with untreated hydrocephalus, such as severe neurological deficits, seizures, and other life-threatening complications.

  • Enhanced Cognitive Function

    Many patients experience improvements in memory, concentration, and other cognitive abilities post-surgery, especially in cases of NPH where cognitive decline is a prominent symptom.

  • Mobility Improvement (for NPH)

    Patients with Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus often experience significant improvement in gait disturbances and balance after shunt insertion, restoring mobility and reducing fall risk.

RECOVERY

Hydrocephalus Surgery Recovery Time and Tips

  • Immediate Post-Operative Period (Hospital Stay)

    After hydrocephalus surgery, patients typically remain in the hospital for 3 to 7 days. During this time, pain management is provided, and close monitoring for any signs of complications like infection or shunt malfunction is paramount. Early mobilization is encouraged under medical supervision.

  • Initial Home Recovery (First Few Weeks)

    The hydrocephalus surgery recovery time and tips for home often involve avoiding strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and contact sports for several weeks to allow incision sites to heal and prevent strain on the shunt system. Headaches and fatigue are common and usually subside gradually.

  • Long-Term Follow-up

    Regular follow-up appointments with the neurosurgeon are crucial. These appointments involve checking shunt function, reviewing imaging scans, and making any necessary adjustments to shunt programming. Lifelong monitoring of the shunt system is generally required.

  • Potential for Rehabilitation

    Depending on the pre-existing neurological deficits, some patients may benefit from physical therapy, occupational therapy, or cognitive rehabilitation to regain strength, coordination, and improve cognitive function.

  • Recognizing Shunt Malfunction or Infection

    Patients and caregivers must be educated on the signs of shunt malfunction (e.g., return of hydrocephalus symptoms, worsening headaches, nausea, lethargy) or infection (fever, redness/swelling along shunt tract) and instructed to seek immediate medical attention if these occur.

  • Lifestyle Adjustments

    Most individuals with a shunt can lead normal, active lives. However, certain precautions, such as protecting the head from injury and informing medical personnel about the shunt during future procedures, are advised. DivinHeal provides comprehensive guidance for managing life with a shunt, ensuring continued well-being.

WHAT WE TREAT

Conditions Treated by Hydrocephalus Surgery

  • Congenital Hydrocephalus

    Present at birth, often due to genetic factors or developmental issues, requiring early intervention to prevent neurological damage.

  • Acquired Hydrocephalus

    Develops later in life due to head injuries, stroke, brain tumors, infections (meningitis), or subarachnoid hemorrhage.

  • Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)

    A specific type affecting older adults, characterized by gait disturbance, dementia, and urinary incontinence, often misdiagnosed as other conditions like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's.

  • Communicating Hydrocephalus

    Occurs when CSF flow is blocked after it exits the ventricles but before it is absorbed into the bloodstream.

  • Non-communicating (Obstructive) Hydrocephalus

    Results from a blockage within the ventricular system itself, preventing CSF from flowing out of the ventricles.

PREPARATION

Preparation for hydrocephalus surgery typically involves a thorough medical evaluation, including a complete physical examination, blood tests, and detailed neurological assessments. Advanced imaging studies such as MRI and CT scans of the brain are crucial for precise diagnosis and surgical planning. Patients may need to discontinue certain medications, especially blood thinners, several days prior to the procedure. Instructions regarding fasting before surgery will be provided. A consultation with the neurosurgeon will address all questions and ensure the patient and family understand the procedure, its benefits, and potential risks. DivinHeal ensures all pre-operative steps are clearly communicated and facilitated for international patients.

RISKS

While hydrocephalus surgery is generally safe, potential risks include infection of the shunt system or surgical site, which may require antibiotic treatment or shunt removal. Shunt malfunction, such as blockage or breakage, can occur, leading to a return of hydrocephalus symptoms and necessitating revision surgery. Other risks include hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain), seizures, damage to brain tissue, over-drainage or under-drainage of CSF, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. For ETV, risks can include damage to nearby blood vessels or brain structures. DivinHeal works with hospitals that maintain the highest safety standards and experienced neurosurgical teams to minimize these risks.

JOURNEY

Your Journey to Recovery: Hydrocephalus Surgery with DivinHeal

  • Initial Consultation & Diagnosis

    Your journey begins with a comprehensive neurological evaluation and advanced imaging (MRI/CT scans) to confirm the diagnosis of hydrocephalus, identify its type (communicating, non-communicating, NPH), and determine the underlying cause. DivinHeal facilitates teleconsultations with leading neurosurgeons to discuss your specific condition and treatment options.

  • Personalized Treatment Planning

    Based on your diagnosis, our network's expert neurosurgeons will develop a tailored treatment plan, typically involving shunt placement or Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV). We provide detailed explanations of the chosen procedure, expected outcomes, and potential risks, ensuring you are fully informed.

  • Seamless Travel & Hospital Admission

    DivinHeal's dedicated care coordinators manage all logistical aspects, from visa applications and travel arrangements to airport transfers and hospital admission. We ensure a stress-free experience, allowing you to focus solely on your health.

  • The Surgical Procedure

    Your hydrocephalus surgery will be performed by highly experienced neurosurgeons using state-of-the-art technology in accredited hospitals. Our team provides continuous support and updates to your family throughout the process.

  • Post-Operative Care & Recovery

    Following surgery, you will receive expert post-operative care, including pain management and monitoring for complications. Recovery typically involves a short hospital stay, followed by detailed instructions for home care and follow-up appointments. DivinHeal assists with your discharge and any necessary post-treatment support.

  • Long-Term Follow-up & Support

    We ensure you have access to long-term follow-up care, including shunt programming adjustments if needed, and rehabilitation services. DivinHeal remains your partner in health, providing ongoing assistance and answering any questions even after you return home.

Hospitals Offering this treatment

India offers premium medical procedures at affordable prices. Discover our most popular treatments, delivered by the country's finest doctors.

Hisar Intercontinental Hospital

Hisar Intercontinental Hospital

Saray Mah. Siteyolu Cad. No:7, Umraniye, 34768, Istanbul, Turkey

Medical Park Group, Istanbul

Medical Park Group, Istanbul

Fahrettin Kerim Gokay Cad. Tıbbiye Cd., Kadikoy, Istanbul, Turkey

Emsey Hospital, Pendik, Istanbul

Emsey Hospital, Pendik, Istanbul

Çamlık, Selçuklu Cd. No:22, 34912 Pendik/İstanbul, Türkiye

LIV Hospital, Istanbul

LIV Hospital, Istanbul

American Hospital, Istanbul

American Hospital, Istanbul

Guzelbahce Sk. No:20, 34365, Nisantasi, Istanbul, Turkey

Memorial Hospitals Group

Memorial Hospitals Group

Burhaniye, Nagehan Sokağı No:4/A D:1, 34676 Üsküdar/İstanbul, Türkiye

Florence Nightingale Hospital Istanbul

Florence Nightingale Hospital Istanbul

Abide-i Hürriyet Cd No:166, 34381 Sisli, Istanbul

Medicana International Hospital, Istanbul

Medicana International Hospital, Istanbul

Halit Ziya Turkkani Mah. Medikal Park Cd. No:1, Beylikdüzü, İstanbul

Okan University Hospital Istanbul

Okan University Hospital Istanbul

Icmeler Mah. Aydınlıyolu Cd. No:2, 34947 Icmeler-Tuzla, Istanbul

Kolan International Hospital, Istanbul

Kolan International Hospital, Istanbul

Kaptanpasa Mah. Okmeydan Kavsagi, Darulaceze Cd. No:14, 34384 Sisli, Istanbul

Al Zahra Hospital, Dubai

Al Zahra Hospital, Dubai

Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1, Dubai, UAE

Burjeel Medical City, Abu Dhabi

Burjeel Medical City, Abu Dhabi

28th Street, Mohammed Bin Zayed City, Abu Dhabi, UAE

Burjeel Hospital, Dubai

Burjeel Hospital, Dubai

Dubai, UAE (part of Burjeel Holdings network)

King's College Hospital, Dubai

King's College Hospital, Dubai

Dubai Hills, Mohammed Bin Rashid City, Dubai, UAE

Neuro Spinal Hospital (NSH), Dubai

Neuro Spinal Hospital (NSH), Dubai

Dubai Science Park, Umm Suqeim St, Al Barsha South, Dubai, UAE

HMS Al Garhoud Hospital, Dubai

HMS Al Garhoud Hospital, Dubai

Al Garhoud Street, Al Garhoud, Dubai, UAE

Canadian Specialist Hospital, Dubai

Canadian Specialist Hospital, Dubai

Abu Hail Street 269/1, Canadian Specialist Hospital Building, Hor Al Anz East, Deira, Dubai, UAE

NMC Royal Women's Hospital, Abu Dhabi

NMC Royal Women's Hospital, Abu Dhabi

Tower B, Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium, Al Jazira Club, Opposite Dusit Thani, Muroor Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE

NMC Specialty Hospital, Al Nahda, Dubai

NMC Specialty Hospital, Al Nahda, Dubai

7A St, Al Qusais, Al Nahda 2, next to Bait Al Khair Building, Dubai

Bangkok Hospital, Thailand

Bangkok Hospital, Thailand

2 Soi Soonvijai 7, New Petchburi Road, Huay Khwang, Bangkok 10310, Thailand

Booking With DIVINHEAL

Get a free consultation to understand your treatment options