A volume control system for the treatment of hydrocephalus: laboratory and clinical experience

Abstract

✓ To eliminate dependence on shunts in the care of hydrocephalus, we have used a “volume control valve” in 18 children who required shunting procedures. This system permits the passage of fluid only when the valve is maintained in a depressed state by transcutaneous compression. Following surgery, an attempt was made to gradually wean the infant from the shunting system. This was done in the hope of ultimately facilitating an arrest of the underlying condition and to avoid a state of shunt dependency. It is believed that by permitting some degree of ventricular dilatation, alternate transventricular absorptive pathways become functional.