Hydrocephalus Flashcards
Hydrocephalus
a result of other neurological disorders, build-up of CSF in the ventricles
Obstructive hydrocephalus
CSF flow is blocked within the ventricles impeding CSF flow
What type of hydrocephalus is most common and noncommunicating
obstructive
Non-obstructing hydrocephalus
CSF is blocked after leaving the ventricles resulting in abnormal/defective CSF absorption
What type of hydrocephalus is communicating
non-obstructing
Pathophysiology
imbalance in CSF production and absorption leading to altered cranial regulation
What is hydrocephalus caused by
ventricular system obstruction of loss/malfunction of arachnoid villi that absorb CSF
Physical assessment
LOC, symmetry/size of the skull (rapid increase in circumference?), motor function (spasticity, reflexes), increased ICP, palpate fontanels, loss of development, personality changes
Ventriculoperitoneal shunt
ventricular catheter placed to allow CSF flow
When do VP shunt infections usually show
1-2 months
Treatment of infected VP shunts
treat with IV antibiotics, remove if infection is persistent
How do VP shunts malfunction
kinks, clogs, tube seperation
s/s of VP shunt infection and malfunction
same as increased ICP
Endoscopic third ventriculostomy
small perforation in the 3rd ventricle for CSF to brain to subarachnoid space
Ventricular tap
reduces excess CSF
