Hydrocephalus in Children

Understanding Pediatric Hydrocephalus 

Hydrocephalus, also known as "fluid on the brain" or ventriculomegaly, can occur after premature birth, trauma, infection or from a congenital anomaly. In infancy, symptoms may include a large, growing head with a noticeably bulging fontanel (soft spot on the top of the skull). Children with hydrocephalus may experience headaches, vomiting, changes in balance or school performance, as well as changes in heart rate or breathing as a result of pressure in the brain.

Individualized Hydrocephalus Care

Physicians at the University of Chicago Medicine Comer Children's Hospital work with each family to design a personalized care plan for children with hydrocephalus. We offer a full range of treatment options, including endoscopic procedures to bypass fluid obstruction and cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) shunting devices to drain excess fluid from the brain. In addition, we can fine-tune fluid drainage with programmable valve devices and other shunt components to increase effectiveness and comfort for young patients. Our team also offers non-invasive ways of examining the effectiveness of shunts after they have been implanted, eliminating the need for other, more painful tests. Our hydrocephalus care is internationally recognized, and parents from many countries bring their children to us for expert treatment.

Meet our Pediatric Neurologists and Neurosurgeons