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Shunt Surgery

Shunt Surgery for Brain Surgery | Treatment for Brain Tumor

Brain Tumor Resection: A Modern Approach to Neurosurgical Care

Hydrocephalus, often referred to as “water on the brain,” is a medical condition caused by an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain’s ventricles. This excess fluid increases pressure inside the skull, which can damage brain tissue and lead to a variety of neurological symptoms. For many forms of hydrocephalus, the most common and effective long-term treatment is the surgical placement of a shunt.

In Pune, India, Dr. Jaydev Panchwagh is a highly experienced neurosurgeon with a deep understanding of hydrocephalus and its management. He is an expert in shunt surgery, providing patients of all ages with a reliable solution to control CSF flow and alleviate the dangerous pressure on the brain.

What is Shunt Surgery?

Shunt surgery is a neurosurgical procedure to implant a shunt system, a medical device designed to divert excess cerebrospinal fluid from the brain to another part of the body, where it can be safely absorbed. The most common type is a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt, which drains fluid from the brain’s ventricles into the abdominal cavity.

The shunt system is made up of three main parts:

  • A ventricular catheter placed in the brain’s ventricle.
  • A valve that regulates the flow and pressure of the fluid.
  • A distal catheter that carries the fluid to the abdominal cavity, chest, or another site.

The shunt provides a consistent, passive pathway for the fluid to drain, helping to maintain a normal intracranial pressure and protect the brain from damage.

How Does It Work?

Shunt surgery is a safe and proven procedure performed under general anesthesia.

  1. Placement of the Catheters: A small incision is made on the scalp, and a tiny hole is created in the skull. A catheter is then gently guided into a ventricle in the brain.
  2. Connecting the Valve: The ventricular catheter is connected to a small, pressure-regulating valve. This valve is placed under the skin, often behind the ear, and is designed to open and drain fluid only when the pressure in the brain exceeds a certain level.
  3. Pathway to the Body: A second catheter is then passed from the valve, under the skin, down the neck and chest, and into the abdominal cavity (for a VP shunt). This distal catheter allows the CSF to drain into the abdomen, where it is harmlessly absorbed by the body.
  4. Long-Term Management: The entire shunt system is placed underneath the skin and is not visible. It is a permanent device that requires lifelong management and monitoring. While it is highly reliable, it may require revisions or adjustments over a patient’s lifetime.

Why Dr. Jaydev Panchwagh is best for Shunt Surgery?

The long-term success of shunt surgery depends not only on a precise initial procedure but also on expert long-term care. Dr. Jaydev Panchwagh in Pune, India, is a trusted choice for shunt surgery because of his:

  • Extensive Experience: He has treated numerous patients with hydrocephalus and is an expert in the complexities of shunt placement and management.
  • Comprehensive Approach: Dr. Panchwagh understands that hydrocephalus requires a complete care plan, from diagnosis to post-operative follow-up and monitoring. He is proficient in the management of shunt malfunctions and infections.
  • Proficiency with Programmable Shunts: He is experienced in using modern, programmable valves that can be adjusted non-invasively with an external magnet, allowing for fine-tuning of the drainage without the need for additional surgery.
  • Commitment to Patient Well-being: For patients who are not suitable for a shunt-free procedure like ETV, he provides the highest level of care for shunt surgery, ensuring a safe procedure and dedicated follow-up for a better quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Shunt Surgery

A shunt is a permanent device that is designed to stay in place for life. It provides continuous drainage and pressure relief.

Like any surgical procedure, there are risks, including infection, blockage, or mechanical failure of the shunt. However, these complications are often treatable and can be managed with professional care.

 The shunt system is placed entirely under the skin. You may be able to feel the valve as a small bump behind the ear, but the tubing is generally not visible.

 Shunt malfunctions can occur due to blockages, mechanical failure, or infection. In children, a shunt may need to be replaced as they grow. Dr. Panchwagh’s team provides comprehensive follow-up care to monitor the shunt’s function and address any issues.

A diagnosis of hydrocephalus requires expert care and a long-term plan. Dr. Jaydev Panchwagh provides the expertise, advanced techniques, and compassionate care to ensure you or your loved one receives the safest and most effective management for this condition.