Hydrocephalus Treatment in India: Complete Guide for International Patients

Hydrocephalus Treatment in India: What International Families Must Know test

Getting diagnosed with hydrocephalus, commonly known as water on the brain can be very stressful for both patients and their families regardless of whether it is an infant, a child, or an adult suffering from this condition. Finding out what treatment methods are there and what to expect in terms of the results, recovery, and medical facilities that specialize in treating this disease will be essential. Learning what hydrocephalus is and starting the treatment process as soon as possible will help to achieve the best outcome.

Today, Hydrocephalus (Water on the Brain) Treatment in India is well-known to international patients for its high-level neurosurgeons, state-of-the-art medical equipment, and affordable prices. Whether it is a complicated case of hydrocephalus in an infant or an adult, Indian top-class hospitals provide evidence-based treatment methods, including VP shunt surgery and Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV) procedures.

This guide will give you detailed information on hydrocephalus - the cause of the disease, its symptoms, the treatment methods used, the approximate cost of the procedure, recovery, and other details you should consider when coming to India for medical treatment.

What Is Hydrocephalus?  ?

Hydrocephalus refers to a neurological disorder that is marked by the excess buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the cavities of the brain. The presence of the fluid causes this condition to be called water on the brain, even though CSF and not water accumulates in the ventricles.

Functions of cerebrospinal fluid include protecting the brain and the spinal cord, providing nutrition to brain cells, removing waste products from the brain, and regulating the intracranial pressure.

When the production, circulation, or reabsorption of CSF is disturbed, the fluid accumulates and increases the pressure in the brain. 

Hydrocephalus can occur at any age depending on its causes. Some children suffer from congenital hydrocephalus when the disease develops due to the abnormalities of development before birth, whereas others develop it as a result of brain tumors, infections, injuries, bleeding in the brain, or other neurological diseases.

Luckily, neurosurgical innovations have led to the management of hydrocephalus being very much feasible in most cases. Through proper treatment and early diagnosis, a majority of people can lead normal lives free from pain and discomfort.

Types of Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus is a disease that has several types based on the ways cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is involved and the cause of the disorder. Identification of the type makes it easier for neurosurgeons to select a proper treatment option. 

• Congenital Hydrocephalus

Congenital hydrocephalus is a congenital condition, which means it appears in newborn babies who have developed this condition before being born. Genetic conditions, abnormal development of brain and spinal cord or infection during pregnancy may be among the reasons for this type.

• Acquired Hydrocephalus

Acquired hydrocephalus occurs after birth and affects not only children but adults as well. Brain tumors, head injury, infection such as meningitis, brain hemorrhage or post-stroke complications may be common causes of this condition. 

• Communicating Hydrocephalus

When a person has communicating hydrocephalus, cerebrospinal fluid flows freely between ventricles but its reabsorption into the blood stream is disrupted, which causes accumulation of CSF.

• Non-communicating (Obstructive) Hydrocephalus

The condition arises when there is an obstruction to the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid in the ventricular system. As a result of the obstruction, the fluid is unable to flow freely and tends to accumulate at the area behind the blockage. In certain cases, methods like ETV have been known to offer treatment for this type of hydrocephalus.

• Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) 

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus usually afflicts elderly people. Despite the normal pressure levels in the brain, there is accumulation of fluid which results in symptoms including difficulties walking, cognitive impairment, and incontinence. Due to the similarity of symptoms to other types of neurological disorders, an expert diagnosis is necessary.

Hydrocephalus Symptoms In Babies, Children, And Adults 

Symptoms of hydrocephalus depend on the age of the person, the level of fluid accumulation and the rate at which the pressure is increasing in the brain. The prompt identification of these symptoms is very important for effective treatment and the prevention of neurological problems.

Hydrocephalus Symptoms In Babies 

The signs of hydrocephalus in an infant can occur during the first few months of life and are usually visible when more fluid accumulates in the brain. Because infants do not have the capacity to tell what is wrong with them, it is important for parents or guardians to monitor the changes in their behavior and physical appearance. 

Hydrocephalus symptoms in babies may include  

•  Very large or fast-growing head
•  Swollen fontanelle
•  Frequent vomiting or poor feeding
•  Excessive sleeping or irritation
•  Seizures
•  Eyes looking downwards ("sunsetting eyes")
•  Slow development 

Since babies are not able to tell about their problems, parents need to pay attention to these symptoms and consult a doctor immediately.

Hydrocephalus Symptoms In Children

Hydrocephalus becomes apparent as the child develops and is associated with various developmental problems related to body structure, brain functions, and the emotional well-being of the child. Symptoms vary in their intensity and depend on individual cases, which makes medical examination of utmost importance. 

>The symptoms may include:  

•  Frequent headaches
•  Nausea and vomiting
•  Vision impairment or blurred vision
•  Imbalance when walking
•  Difficulties in learning and concentration
•  Personality changes
•  Sleeping problems 

It is crucial to be examined by a pediatric neurologist or neurosurgeon on time to avoid complications. 

Adult Hydrocephalus Symptoms

Symptoms of hydrocephalus in adults tend to develop slowly and might sometimes be confused with signs of other brain disorders. Some symptoms associated with adult hydrocephalus include:

• Recurrent headaches
• Trouble walking and balancing
• Memory loss and confusion
• Vision difficulties
• Inability to control urination
• Lack of coordination
• Difficulties concentrating on activities

Ignoring these symptoms will cause them to become progressively worse with time. It is advisable to see a doctor when the symptoms first start manifesting.

What Are the Causes of Hydrocephalus?

The development of hydrocephalus is linked with issues related to normal circulation and absorption of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This results in an excess accumulation of the CSF fluid in the brain. There are a variety of reasons for this condition depending on age and the type of hydrocephalus.

 Newborns develop this condition because of problems with the development of their brain while in the womb. Otherwise, it is caused by genetic reasons or infections in the womb that affect the CSF circulation.

Older patients can suffer from hydrocephalus as a result of various diseases or traumas. The causes include:

• Tumors in the brain that hinder the proper flow of cerebrospinal fluid
• Injury to the head or brain
• Brain infection like meningitis or encephalitis
• Bleeding in or around the brain (intraventricular bleeding)
• Stroke or other nervous disorders
• Complications after surgery for the brain
• Abnormalities or cysts in the ventricles

Older adults can experience NPH even if there is no known cause, but it can happen due to bleeding in the brain, infections, or trauma to the brain.

Due to the dependence on the cause when choosing the form of treatment, it is important that an accurate neurological examination and brain scans be conducted to determine the best way to treat it.

What Are the Methods of Diagnosing Hydrocephalus?

Neurologists investigate the symptoms, medical history, and functions of the nervous system of a patient before conducting imaging studies in order to determine the disease and its causes.

The following methods may be used for diagnosis:

• Neurological examination to test balance, coordination, reflexes, vision, memory, and cognitive function.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) for visualization of the brain structures and determination of enlarged ventricles, obstructions, tumors, and other abnormalities.
• CT (Computed Tomography) that can be used in emergency situations to detect extra cerebrospinal fluid, bleeding, and brain damage.
• Cranial ultrasound is mostly used in infants because it allows specialists to study the brain of a patient without using any radiation while the soft spot of a baby's head is still open.
• Eye examination to see the swelling of the optic nerve and identify high intracranial pressure.

Sometimes additional tests are needed to evaluate the dynamics of cerebrospinal fluid and to decide if a person is eligible for certain treatments like Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV).

After the diagnosis is made, the neurosurgery team will come up with a specific treatment regimen for the patient based on the individual’s age, general health, type of hydrocephalus, and causes of the condition. Early diagnosis is very vital in achieving good results in the treatment of this disease.

Treatment Methods for Hydrocephalus in India

There are several factors that affect the method of treatment such as age of the patient, type and cause of hydrocephalus, and the symptoms. The main aim is to lower pressure inside the skull by normalizing the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Nowadays, Hydrocephalus Treatment in India involves modern neurosurgical methods, which are used by professional doctors to provide high-level treatment for both local and foreign patients.

VP Shunt Procedure

VP shunt operation (ventriculoperitoneal shunt) is the most widespread surgical intervention for the treatment of hydrocephalus. In the process of the operation a special thin tube (shunt) is implanted into the brain ventricles to remove excessive cerebrospinal fluid into the abdominal cavity, where it can be easily assimilated by the organism. 

There is a special valve inside the shunt, which regulates the flow of cerebrospinal fluid and maintains the normal pressure inside the brain. Though the shunt is left inside the body forever, it is necessary to visit the doctor from time to time in order to check whether the shunt works properly.

Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV)

The Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV) is a less invasive operation, which can be suggested for certain individuals, especially those suffering from communicating hydrocephalus. In this type of surgery, the surgeon creates an opening in the floor of the third ventricle using an endoscope, thus enabling cerebrospinal fluid to circumvent the obstruction and flow normally. 

As the ETV does not entail having a shunt, some patients might have fewer problems associated with shunts in the future. Not everyone is an appropriate patient for this type of surgery, but only imaging tests will show whether one is.

Shunt vs ETV

Both VP shunt surgery and ETV are effective treatment options, but the most appropriate procedure depends on the patient's condition.

In place of considering what is best, it would be more useful to find out what works better for the particular patient. The skilled neurosurgeon will advise on the safest and most efficient way after thorough examination.

Cost of Hydrocephalus Treatment in India

Among other factors that attract many overseas patients to India is the affordable quality of neurosurgical treatment offered here in comparison with many western countries. The cost of hydrocephalus treatment in India largely depends on various things, such as age, type of the operation, hospital, surgeon's experience, and length of hospitalization.

In case you need to undergo a VP shunt surgery, your cost of VP shunt in India will differ depending on the shunt system that you use. The same applies to the ETV treatment - its cost depends on the patient's condition and technology.

As each case differs, the best way is to get an individual quotation based on the medical reports of the patient. Moreover, there are also treatment packages offered by many Indian hospitals for foreign patients, covering everything from diagnosis through surgery, hospital stay, to postoperative treatment. Through Welltara, you will be able to obtain accurate quotations and assistance in selecting the best possible treatment option for yourself. 

Reasons Why International Patients Opt for India for Hydrocephalus Treatment

In recent times, India has emerged as an ideal choice for international patients requiring neurological treatments owing to its qualified professionals, state-of-the-art facilities, and affordable services. Families looking for a good hospital for hydrocephalus treatment in India can access top-notch multispecialty hospitals offering state-of-the-art neuroimaging technology, neurosurgery departments, and pediatric ICU.

In case of infant patients and children, there is expert hydrocephalus treatment for babies and hydrocephalus treatment for children in India offered by experienced pediatric neurosurgeons in association with neurologists, rehabilitation experts, and neonatologists.

To ease the medical journey of international patients, Welltara provides end-to-end medical assistance for international patients that include visa assistance, accommodation arrangements close to the hospital, airport pick-up and drop services, and appointment booking. There is always a personal patient coordinator available who can help international patients during the entire journey of treatment.

Conclusion

While a hydrocephalus diagnosis can prove to be tough, a lot of people have gone on to recover through proper treatment. The country of India provides world-class treatment and highly skilled neurosurgeons for international patients who wish to seek treatment here. At Welltara, we ensure that all your healthcare needs are met, right from hospital selection to pre and post treatment arrangements.

 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it possible to cure hydrocephalus?

Proper management of hydrocephalus can only be possible if the right treatment comes at the right time. However, there might be scenarios where hydrocephalus cannot be cured depending on the source of the condition. Shunt procedures and ETV help to reduce pressure on the brain.

2. What is the success rate of hydrocephalus treatment?

The success rate of treating hydrocephalus is relatively high if it is detected at the right time and if the right neurosurgeons perform the treatment. Different factors determine the success of the treatment process including the health status of the patient.

3. How much does the recovery time take after surgery?

Recovery times vary for different individuals depending on the level of severity of the disease. Patients stay in hospitals for several days following surgery and are able to perform their daily activities after receiving instructions from doctors.

4. Is it possible for international patients to visit India for the treatment of hydrocephalus?

Absolutely! Every year, many international patients visit India to seek world-class treatment of hydrocephalus. Through the help of Welltara, families are assisted in getting medical visas, hospital selection, accommodations, airport pick-up and drop off, appointments, and a patient coordinator.

Seeking Hydrocephalus Treatment in India?

Are you looking for the right hydrocephalus treatment for yourself or a loved one? Welltara is here to assist you right from the beginning until the last step. It does not matter whether you are seeking consultations with renowned neurosurgeons, hospitals, treatment plans, costs, or travel arrangements. All your concerns will be taken care of seamlessly.

Get in touch with us at Welltara for the right treatment options.