What is the procedure for inserting a ventricular shunt in an adult?
It is likely that your neurologist will first attempt to treat you non-surgically. When hydrocephalus appears in adults, it is not always permanent, and because placing a ventricular shunt or lumbar shunt is a very invasive procedure. I will explain both surgical and non-surgical procedures, but if you have already been told that you need a shunt, you can skip over the non-surgical stuff. Causes of Hydrocephalus Hydrocephalus is a condition in which the cerebrospinal fluid causes excess pressure on the brain and spinal cord. It is typically manifested by strong headaches, dizziness, vomiting, confusion or disorientation, loss of motor function, seizures, syncopal episodes (passing out), or in extreme cases, coma. This condition can be caused by multiple things. Communicating hydrocephalus occurs when the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is blocked after it exits the ventricles. This form is called communicating, because the CSF can still flow between the ventricles, which remain open.
