Overview

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus is a neurological condition characterized by an abnormal build-up of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) deep within the ventricles of the brain. CSF is a fluid that cushions the brain and spinal cord and acts as a shock absorber. When the circular flow of CSF is blocked, it starts accumulating around the brain causing the ventricles to widen and putting the harmful press on the brain tissues.

If the pressure is too much, it can damage nearby brain tissues leading to problems with cognitive thinking and impact on main brain functions. Fortunately, the treatment of normal pressure hydrocephalus is possible with surgery.

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    Symptoms

    The signs and symptoms of normal pressure hydrocephalus vary depending on the age of onset. Common symptoms include:

    • Unusually large head size
    • Severe headache
    • Nausea and vomiting
    • Impaired bladder control
    • Gait disturbances
    • Cognition problems/memory loss
    • Mild dementia
    brain scans for normal pressure hydrocephalus

    Diagnosis

    Normal pressure hydrocephalus is diagnosed by performing a thorough neurological examination. Your doctor may recommend the following tests to check the extra fluid accumulated around the brain.

    • Computed tomography scan (CT/CAT scan)
    • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
    • Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)
    • Fundoscopic exam
    • Intracranial pressure monitoring
    Dystonia, Neurosurgeon Los Angeles, Spine Surgeon in Los Angeles.

    Treatment

    Normal pressure hydrocephalus is treated with surgery that involves the implantation of a shunt, a long thin tube to drain extra CSF fluid from the brain to the abdomen. This treatment can restore and maintain normal CSF levels and patients live normal and productive lives afterward.

    Hydrocephalus Treatment At Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery

    At Southern California Brain & Spine Surgery neurosurgeon Dr. Moksha Ranasinghe has extensive experience in treating normal pressure hydrocephalus and related conditions. She is among the handful of renowned neurosurgeons in Los Angeles who perform the safest surgeries to treat various brain and spine conditions.

    1.

    Advanced diagnostic methods

    2.

    State-of-the-art technology

    3.

    Minimally Invasive Surgery

    4.

    Patient-oriented approach

    5.

    Recovery with less downtime

    6.

    Outstanding patient care

    For more information call us at (213) 369-4583 or visit our office in Los Angeles today!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    faq
    What is a normal pressure hydrocephalus shunt?
    A:

    It is a common type of surgical treatment for normal pressure hydrocephalus that involves implanting a medical device called the shunt. It drains excess CSF fluid from the brain to another part of the body where it can be absorbed easily.

    What is the life expectancy for someone with normal pressure hydrocephalus?
    A:

    Children born with this condition can have a normal life span of 40-50 years. While in adults, the prognosis for the onset of this condition depends on the cause of the disorder.

    What is Obstructive Hydrocephalus?
    A:

    It is a type of hydrocephalus that occurs when the normal flow of CSF fluid is blocked causing enlargement of ventricles and an increase in pressure in brain tissues.

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