Shunting

The brain and spinal cord form the central nervous system. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is an important fluid that is formed inside the brain in spaces called ventricles. CSF completely surrounds the brain and spinal cord, providing nutrients and protection.

Our bodies produce about one pint of CSF each day. Under normal conditions, our bodies produce and absorb the same amount of fluid keeping our system in balance. When this balance is disrupted and we are making more CSF than we absorb, the fluid builds up. This condition is called hydrocephalus.

Common causes of hydrocephalus in adults include bleeding or infection in the brain, or brain tumors in certain locations that may block flow or reabsorbtion of the CSF.

The most common treatment for hydrocephalus is called shunting. A shunt is a flexible tube that is surgically inserted in the operating room. A shunt redirects the flow of CSF from the brain to another part of the body where the fluid can be absorbed. The shunt is usually placed from the brain to the abdominal cavity. The tubing carrying the CSF runs under the skin from the head to the abdomen, just under the stomach. There is a valve on the shunt that allows your doctor to adjust the flow of the fluid. Your shunt may require periodic adjustment to maintain normal flow.