Norvic introduces ‘Programmable Shunt System’ for brain fluid treatment

KATHMANDU: Norvic International Hospital has initiated the use of a ‘Programmable Shunt System’ to treat patients undergoing shunt surgery for hydrocephalus, a condition where excess fluid accumulates in the brain.

Traditionally, shunt surgery involves placing a thin tube under the skin from the back of the head to the abdomen to drain the excess fluid.

However, complications often arise, such as insufficient or excessive drainage, necessitating repeat surgeries.

To address this, Norvic has introduced a programmable shunt system that allows external adjustments to control the fluid levels without requiring additional surgeries.

This innovative treatment was recently performed successfully by a team led by Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon Prof. Dr. Rajeev Jha.

“Until now, patients had to travel abroad for such treatments,” said Prof. Dr. Jha. “This system eliminates the need for repeated surgeries to replace the shunt tube, offering significant relief to patients.”

With this method, the programmable shunt enables fluid regulation externally, reducing the need for invasive procedures and enhancing patient outcomes.

What Causes Hydrocephalus?

Hydrocephalus, the medical term for fluid accumulation in the brain, can occur due to several reasons:

• Congenital Brain Disorders (Congenital Hydrocephalus): Present from birth.
• Infections: Conditions like meningitis or encephalitis.
• Head Injuries: Post-traumatic hydrocephalus caused by trauma.
• Brain Hemorrhage: Internal bleeding in the brain.
• Brain Tumors: Obstructions caused by tumors.

While tumors can often be addressed by removing the growth, cases involving infections, hemorrhages, or congenital issues require surgical diversion of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).

One common method is the VP Shunt (Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt), where a tube is inserted from the brain to the abdomen. Another is endoscopic surgery, which avoids external tubing.

Symptoms of Hydrocephalus

In Infants

Infants with congenital hydrocephalus may exhibit:

• An abnormally large head size.
• Hardened fontanelle (soft spot).
• Excessive crying.
• Feeding difficulties and vomiting.

If left untreated, prolonged fluid accumulation can increase brain pressure, leading to speech delays, impaired vision, or blindness.

Parents should monitor for these signs, particularly if a baby’s head grows abnormally large or the baby cries excessively and refuses to feed.

In Adults and Elderly

Adults may experience:

• Persistent headaches.
• Vomiting.
• Blurred or double vision.
• Difficulty walking.

Elderly patients may face:

• Loss of bladder control.
• Memory deterioration.
• Reduced mobility.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Hydrocephalus is diagnosed using CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasounds. Early detection and intervention are critical to managing the condition effectively.

Norvic International Hospital’s programmable shunt system offers a transformative approach, reducing the risks and inconveniences of traditional treatments while ensuring patient comfort and safety.