Shunt Malfunctions: Problems when Surgically Treating Hydrocephalus

A shunt is a common surgical procedure to treat hydrocephalus. The major part of the shunt is the valve and flexible tubing. An understanding of hydrocephalus is required to escape and understand the technologies.

Hydrocephalus is a medical condition in which too much CSF is not absorbed. The purpose of the shunt is to drain excess fluid from the brain.

Malfunctions in the shunt are generated in three different groups; babies, toddlers, school age children. Technical distributions vary differently between age groups.

children

Malfunction #1: Sleep is the most common sign of fatigue. This sign does not always mean that the shunt is confused. If numbness becomes a constant issue, the shunt is sedated. Do not rely on this sign alone.

Malfunction #2: A change in appetite could mean numerous problems. A child cannot be hungry. The infant’s appetite must be carefully monitored. Generally, a change in appetite is often the key problem for a child.

toddlers

Malfunction #1: Headaches in small children should be something to worry about. Small children are often not medicated. If the headache persists, no medication seems to work but the doctor advises immediately.

Malfunction #2: seizures seem to wake up parents sooner to a malfunction in the shunt. After one episode of seizure, the doctor will be notified. Seizures can mean many medical problems. You may not see this sign.

School age children

Malfunction #1: Vomiting is a symptom of an underlying disease. This is a classic symptom of many diseases. A mistaken shunt can cause someone to vomit. This symptom may indicate other problems, not just a shunt malfunction.

Malfunction confusion #2: Confusion in a child may or may not be a sign of the need for rejection. revised Most children who suffer from anxiety disorders can have trouble with their shunt. Be aware that confusional intervals can lead to other serious medical conditions.

Every child with a shunt responds differently and reflects with the technician. And these are the most things when he flees, and they are similar. Malfunction decline can lead to many other serious health problems such as infection.

A shunt is one method of treating and managing hydrocephalus. Another dangerous operation is available, only in cases where hydrocephalus arises from a genetic disorder. Cages are more recommended to handle and manage such a situation.

Malfunctions can happen at any time. There are a few examples of techniques that are mentioned in this text. There are many others to be cared for. The standards will vary between children and adults.

If a malfunction occurs and the symptoms are not recorded, do not be afraid to ask your doctor. There are makeup there. No doubt he is a fool. So ask. A malfunction in the shunt could be fatal. There is no guarantee that it can honestly happen to your child if a malfunction in the shunt is taken care of right away.

A malfunction in the shunt could lead to irreversible brain damage. Brain damage is a major concern for those patients who have shunts. Fleeing is not perfect. Some shunts never leave. A shunt is not safe when it malfunctions. Every device is different.

Aware of the symptoms, perhaps they are not confused in avoiding diseases but other serious ones. Everything is possible. Do not hesitate to call your doctor if any sign of illness is detected in the patient. Failure to check for signs of severe brain damage that will be irreversible.

Sources:

Cincinnati Children’s “http://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/info/neurology/treat/shunts.htm”
Cincinnati Children’s “http://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/info/neurologytreat/shunt-malfuntion.htm”

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