Hydrocephalus & Chiari Malformation

Treatments & Procedures:

• MRI with CSF flow studies
• Chiari decompression surgery
• Duraplasty when needed to improve CSF flow
• Pain and symptom management for mild cases
• Monitoring when symptoms are stable

Treatments & Procedures:

• Shunt placement or revision
• Endoscopic CSF procedures
• Corrective neurosurgery when needed
• Long-term monitoring and care

Treatments & Procedures:

• Endoscopic procedures to restore CSF flow
• Shunt placement
• Surgical removal of the blockage
• Imaging and pressure testing

Treatments & Procedures:

• Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt
• Ventriculoatrial (VA) or lumboperitoneal (LP) shunt
• Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV)
• Shunt revisions or adjustments
• Monitoring with imaging or pressure studies

Treatments & Procedures:

• Diagnostic tap test to check for improvement
• VP shunt placement
• Shunt adjustments to improve symptoms
• Ongoing monitoring with neurology and neurosurgery

Treatments & Procedures:

• MRI to monitor syrinx size
• Chiari decompression surgery (if the syrinx is caused by Chiari)
• Syrinx drainage or shunt (in select cases)
• Treatment of the underlying cause

Conditions Treated:

• Hydrocephalus
• Chiari malformation
• Syringomyelia
• CSF flow disorders

Before the Procedure:

Most imaging tests require no special preparation. Some MRIs may need contrast dye.

After the Procedure:

You can return to normal activity right away. Your care team will review results and discuss next steps.

Conditions Treated:

• Chiari Malformation Type I
• Chiari-related headaches and neck pain
• Chiari-related syringomyelia

Before the Procedure:

MRI with CSF flow studies helps plan the surgery. Your surgeon will explain the steps and discuss anesthesia and recovery. You may need to stop certain medicines ahead of time.

After the Procedure:

Most patients stay several days in the hospital. Neck soreness is common at first. As healing continues, headaches, balance problems, and other symptoms often improve. Follow-up imaging may be needed.

Conditions Treated:

• Hydrocephalus
• Blocked fluid pathways in the brain

Before the Procedure:

Children will need an MRI or other imaging to confirm they are a candidate for ETV. Instructions may include stopping food or drink before surgery.

After the Procedure:

Most children recover in the hospital for one or two days. Follow-up imaging helps confirm that fluid is draining properly and symptoms are improving.

Conditions Treated:

• Suspected CSF pressure disorders
• Hydrocephalus with unclear symptoms
• Conditions affecting brain swelling or fluid balance

Before the Procedure:

Imaging helps guide placement. The sensor is placed during a short procedure under anesthesia. Monitoring may continue for a day or longer.

After the Procedure:

You will remain in the hospital while the care team tracks pressure changes. The sensor is removed once testing is complete. Results guide your treatment plan.

Conditions Treated:

• Shunt malfunction
• Blocked or infected shunts
• Symptoms returning after prior improvement

Before the Procedure:

Imaging and a full exam help identify the problem. You may need blood tests or pressure studies. Your surgeon will explain the plan and review anesthesia details.

After the Procedure:

Recovery is similar to the original shunt surgery. You will have follow-up visits to check healing and confirm that symptoms are improving again.

Conditions Treated:

• Syringomyelia
• Syrinx from Chiari malformation
• Syrinx from injury or infection

Before the Procedure:

Imaging is used to locate the syrinx and guide planning. Your care team will explain anesthesia, surgical steps, and expected recovery.

After the Procedure:

Neck or back soreness is common for a few days. Symptoms like weakness or numbness may improve over time as pressure decreases. Follow-up imaging checks the syrinx size and stability.

Conditions Treated:

• Hydrocephalus
• NPH
• CSF buildup when other pathways cannot be used

Before the Procedure:

Imaging and lab tests help guide the decision. Your surgeon will explain which shunt type fits your needs. You will receive instructions about anesthesia and activity.

After the Procedure:

Most patients recover with simple wound care. Follow-up visits allow the team to adjust the shunt and check progress. Symptoms usually improve over time as pressure normalizes.

Conditions Treated:

• Hydrocephalus
• Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)
• CSF flow blockages

Before the Procedure:

You will have imaging tests such as MRI or CT to plan the surgery. Your care team will review medicines to stop before surgery and explain what to expect. Most patients receive general anesthesia.

After the Procedure:

You may stay in the hospital for monitoring. Some soreness near the incision is normal. A programmable shunt may be adjusted in follow-up visits to find the best setting. Most people notice gradual improvement in walking, balance, or thinking.