Clinical study and management of hydrocephalus in children

Abstract

Background: Hydrocephalus is a condition in which an accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) occurs within the brain. Hydrocephalus can occur at any age, but it is more common in infants. Long-term complications of hydrocephalus can vary widely and are often difficult to predict and may result in significant intellectual, developmental and physical disabilities. Ventriculoperitoneal shunt remains mainstay of treatment even today as it is easily available and inexpensive.Methods: The study was conducted in Dr. V. M. Government Medical College and Hospital located in Solapur (Maharashtra) from September 2016 to 2018.  It was a prospective descriptive study. 30 cases up to the age 14 years with diagnosis of hydrocephalus undergoing VP (ventriculo-peritoneal) shunt surgery were included in the study.Results: Aqueductal stenosis and tuberculous meningitis were the commonest causes of congenital and acquired hydrocephalus in children respectively. Shunt infection and shunt obstruction were the commonest post-operative complications required shunt revision. Low birth weight and other associated congenital anomalies increased the mortality rate.Conclusions: VP shunt placement has been the main treatment modality for hydrocephalus. VP shunts procedures are associated with complications and morbidity. Number of revision shunt procedures, low birth weight, associated congenital anomalies adversely affected the final surgical outcome.