Conditions We Treat: Hydrocephalus in Children

Hydrocephalus, or water on the brain, is an excessive buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in open areas of the brain due to a number of causes. An infant may be born with hydrocephalus due to a congenital condition or a child might acquire the problem later in life. Whatever the underlying cause of your child’s hydrocephalus, the experts at Johns Hopkins can help resolve it and address its risk to your child. 

Pediatric Hydrocephalus Treatments

Johns Hopkins pediatric neurosurgeons have vast expertise in surgically managing hydrocephalus in infants and children, including shunts (small, flexible tubes) to drain the excess fluid and other procedures, including minimally invasive options.

Shunts

Most often, hydrocephalus is treated surgically with the placement of a shunt to bypass the blockage that is causing the buildup, or to create a better flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). A shunt is a tiny silicone tube that allows for fluid to flow through it in one direction. A valve system regulates the flow and creates a reservoir of CSF that can be tested often to make sure the shunt is working properly and there are no signs of infection.

Alternatives to Shunts

Endoscopic third ventriculostomy: Certain types of hydrocephalus can be treated by making a tiny hole in the ventricles to re-create a normal flow. This alternative to shunting is an endoscopic approach that bypasses the blockage and creates a detour for the flow of CSF.

Our pediatric neurosurgeons are fellowship-trained and highly experienced in performing these endoscopic procedures. The benefits of an endoscopic approach include the elimination of placing foreign materials in the brain, which can result in fewer infections and less risk of complications.