Best Hydrocephalus Doctors in Delhi

Hydrocephalus, often referred to as "water in the brain", is a neurological condition caused by the abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the brain's ventricles. This excess fluid puts undue pressure on the brain tissues, disrupting normal brain functions and leading to potential brain damage. Hydrocephalus is primarily caused due to tumours, cysts, birth defects, brain injuries, or stroke, which block the normal CSF flow. It can also be caused due to inflammation, injuries, or infections like bacterial meningitis, which can hinder the brain tissues from absorbing CSF. In rare cases, hydrocephalus can be caused when the body produces excess CSF, often triggered by infections like meningitis.

In Delhi, a city known for its quality healthcare services and excellent medical professionals, hydrocephalus is not an uncommon condition. It affects individuals across all age groups, from infants born with congenital hydrocephalus to older adults dealing with normal pressure hydrocephalus. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment for hydrocephalus at Apollo Hospitals, Delhi, can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Types/Stages of Hydrocephalus

There are several types of hydrocephalus, which include:

• Communicating Hydrocephalus: The CSF flow is blocked after it exits the ventricles, causing accumulation within the brain.

• Obstructive Hydrocephalus: This type happens when the CSF flow is obstructed within one or more narrow passages connecting the ventricles.

• Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus: A form of communicating hydrocephalus that often develops slowly without a clear cause and is common in older adults.

• Hydrocephalus Ex-Vacuo: This type results from brain damage caused by conditions like stroke or degenerative diseases, where the brain matter shrinks and CSF volume increases to fill the extra space.

Symptoms of Hydrocephalus

The symptoms of hydrocephalus can vary widely based on age, but some common signs include:

• Unusually large head in infants, rapid head growth, or a tension-filled soft spot.

• Headaches

• Blurred vision

• Trouble with balance

• Poor coordination

• Decline in memory, concentration

Tests to Diagnose Hydrocephalus

The doctors for cerebral fluid accumulation treatment diagnose hydrocephalus using the following combination of tests:

• Neurological Evaluation: Conducted to evaluate muscle reflexes and movement, sensory abilities, and overall brain function

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging: This imaging test produces detailed images of the brain, showing enlarged ventricles and potential causes of hydrocephalus.

• Computed Tomography Scan: This specialised X-ray technology provides cross-sectional views of the brain.

• CSF Pressure Readings: These pressure readings may be taken through lumbar puncture, lumbar drainage test, or lumbar infusion test to assess CSF levels and pressure within the brain and spinal cord.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Hydrocephalus at Apollo Hospitals, Delhi

At Apollo Hospitals in Delhi, the doctors for normal pressure hydrocephalus treatment recommend a wide range of effective treatment options for hydrocephalus. These include:

• Shunt Placement: This involves surgically placing a drainage system (shunt) to redirect excess CSF from the brain's ventricles to another part of the body.

• Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy: This minimally invasive procedure creates an opening in the floor of the brain's third ventricle to allow trapped CSF to drain naturally.

• Medical Treatment: This may include medications like acetazolamide, furosemide, or isosorbide that can delay surgical intervention, especially in premature infants.