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Hydrocephalus Surgery at Ajuda Hospitals

Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) and shunt systems under NABH safety with ICU support

Book Hydrocephalus Consultation
70–85%
ETV Success (selected cases)
Obstructive/non-communicating hydrocephalus in suitable anatomy
48–72 hrs
Typical Ward Stay
Uncomplicated ETV or shunt patients with ERAS-style care
2–5%
Early Revision Rate
Benchmark-aligned in monitored pathways

When to Consult

  • Morning headaches with nausea/vomiting
  • Gait imbalance or frequent falls
  • Blurred vision or double vision; papilledema on eye check
  • Urinary urgency/incontinence with slow thinking (NPH features)
  • Rapid head growth/irritability in infants; bulging fontanelle
  • Prior bleed, infection or tumor with new pressure symptoms

Understanding Hydrocephalus in the Indian Context

Hydrocephalus occurs when cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up and raises brain pressure. In Hyderabad and across Telangana, we see obstructive cases from aqueductal stenosis or tumors, post-hemorrhagic causes after trauma, and infection-related cases. Early imaging, correct procedure selection and infection prevention determine long-term outcomes.

Families from Warangal, Karimnagar and Nalgonda often travel for care; our coordinators align scans, authorisations and follow-ups to reduce delays.

When to Consult Our Hydrocephalus Specialists

Seek urgent care if you notice:
  • ✓ Worsening morning headaches with vomiting
  • ✓ Sudden gait imbalance, confusion or drowsiness
  • ✓ Visual blurring, double vision or unequal pupils
  • ✓ Rapid head growth or tense fontanelle in infants
Book a routine consult if you have:
  • ✓ MRI/CT suggesting hydrocephalus
  • ✓ Prior bleed/infection with new pressure symptoms
  • ✓ Known shunt with new headaches, fever or redness along the tube

Our Diagnostic Approach

Focused Exam & Fundoscopy

Assess raised ICP and neurological deficits; counsel on red flags.

MRI Brain ± CSF Flow Study (CT in Emergencies)

Differentiate communicating vs obstructive hydrocephalus; look for aqueductal block, cysts or tumor obstruction.

Aetiology Work-up

Rule out infection, hemorrhage and congenital anomalies; basic labs and, when indicated, CSF studies.

Procedure Planning

Choose ETV vs shunt; programmable valve selection; antibiotic timing; ICU plan and consent.

Treatment Pathways

  • Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV)
  • Programmable VP Shunt
  • External Ventricular Drain (EVD) – Acute
  • Endoscopic Aqueductoplasty (Selected)
  • Infection-Prevention Bundle
  • Tele-Follow-Up & Valve Adjustment Program

What to Expect: Your Care Journey

First Visit (30–60 min): Exam, imaging review and counselling.
Pre-Op (Same day–2 days): Labs, anaesthesia fitness, authorisation.
Surgery Day: WHO/NABH checklists; ETV or shunt with ICU observation.
Discharge (48–72 hrs typical): Wound care, fever precautions, valve card.
Follow-Up (1–2 weeks): Suture removal; valve setting review.
Long-Term: Imaging at 3–6 months; annual checks; WhatsApp triage for warnings.

Technology & Innovation

  • Programmable shunt valves with non-invasive adjustment
  • Endoscopic suite with neuronavigation in selected cases
  • EMR/PACS-integrated follow-up schedules and reminders

Preventing Complications

Meticulous antisepsis, antibiotic-impregnated catheters, limited handling and early wound checks reduce infection. Clear education on shunt/ETV red flags helps avoid delays in care.

Why Ajuda for Hydrocephalus Care?

🧭 Personalised Diversion

ETV or programmable shunt chosen to fit your anatomy and lifestyle.

🏥 ICU-Backed Safety

24/7 neuro ICU with rapid imaging and post-op monitoring.

📲 Connected Follow-Up

Valve checks and tele follow-ups with WhatsApp support.

Take the First Step

Early, tailored treatment protects brain function and vision. Call or WhatsApp 9010550550 to plan your care at Ajuda Hospitals, Hyderabad.

Diagnosis Approach

1

Focused Neuro Exam & Fundoscopy

Red-flag screening for raised ICP; papilledema assessment; GCS tracking.

2

Imaging (MRI Brain ± CSF Flow Study; CT for Emergencies)

Define communicating vs obstructive; identify aqueductal block, tumors or post-hemorrhagic causes.

3

Aetiology Work-up

Rule out infection (incl. TB), hemorrhage, congenital anomalies and secondary causes; labs per clinical context.

4

Surgical Planning & Consent

Decide ETV vs shunt; valve selection; antibiotic/antisepsis plan; anaesthesia and ICU readiness.

Treatment Options

Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV)

Creates a new CSF pathway at the third ventricle floor; neuronavigation assists trajectory in select cases.

High success in obstructive hydrocephalus with suitable anatomy
60–90 minutes

Programmable Ventriculo-Peritoneal (VP) Shunt

Adjustable valve allows non-invasive pressure changes; antibiotic-impregnated catheters reduce infection risk.

Reliable diversion for communicating hydrocephalus
60–90 minutes; valve checks in follow-up

External Ventricular Drain (EVD) – Acute Care

Temporary CSF diversion with ICU monitoring for acute raised pressure or infection work-up.

Rapid ICP control; bridge to definitive surgery
ICU-based; hours to days

Endoscopic Aqueductoplasty (Selected)

Restores aqueductal patency in focal stenosis; often combined with ETV.

Useful in discrete aqueductal block
90–120 minutes

Infection-Prevention Bundle

Pre-op skin prep, antibiotic timing, tunneling technique, minimal handling and early wound review.

Lowers shunt infection and early failure
Peri-operative and first 2 weeks

Tele-Follow-Up & Valve Adjustment Program

Structured visits with programmable valve checks; WhatsApp triage for red flags.

Improves adherence and lowers avoidable ER visits
First year: 2–4 visits; then annual

Expected Outcomes

Treatment Timeline

2–7 Days

Symptom relief (headache, vision, gait); wound check; discharge education

2–4 Weeks

Suture removal; valve adjustment if needed; return to light work/school

3–6 Months

Imaging review; neuro-rehab goals for gait/cognition as needed

1 Year+

Annual surveillance; growth-related reviews in children

Success Metrics

  • Symptom improvement without new deficits
  • No infection or malfunction in early postoperative period
  • Minimal readmissions and planned follow-ups achieved