Hydrocephalus care for children

A hydrocephalus diagnosis can bring a lot of questions. Our pediatric neurosurgery team evaluates your child’s condition, explains treatment options and helps your family understand what to expect.

Hydrocephalus occurs when too much cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up in the brain. This buildup can enlarge spaces in the brain called ventricles and increase pressure.

Hydrocephalus may be present at birth or develop later because of another condition, infection, bleeding, injury or tumor.

Signs we may evaluate

Symptoms can vary by age and may include:

  • A rapidly increasing head size in infants
  • A bulging soft spot
  • Headaches
  • Irritability or unusual sleepiness
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Problems with balance, walking or vision
  • Seizures

How we evaluate your child

We begin with a physical exam and review your child’s symptoms and medical history. Imaging, such as an MRI, CT scan or ultrasound, may be used to look at the brain and determine whether the ventricles are enlarged.

We explain the findings in clear language and discuss whether treatment is needed. Whenever appropriate, we also offer a rapid (quick) MRI protocol, which can often provide the information we need without exposing your child to radiation. This helps reduce the need for CT scans while still allowing us to make timely and accurate decisions about your child’s care.

How hydrocephalus is treated

Treatment focuses on improving the flow or drainage of CSF and reducing pressure on the brain.

For some children, treatment may involve placing a shunt to redirect extra fluid to another part of the body. Other children may be candidates for an endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV), which creates another pathway for fluid to flow.

The right treatment depends on your child’s age, anatomy and type of hydrocephalus.

Call (972) 566-6900 to schedule an appointment.

We proudly participate in the Next Steps Program to give your family free educational resources and a cuddly "My Hydro Bear" to help explain shunt care. Ask our neurosurgery team for a program postcard during your next visit to claim your free kit.