[Development of shunt technology especially for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus]

Outcome of the treatment on hydrocephalus especially in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) shows the better outcome after shunting operation according to the evolution of the shunt system and the better management of shunt complications, and also, comprehension of the pathophysiology of NPH. The history of shunt system is benefit for the understanding of the now available shunt system. The first generation system is emerge as the typical standard differential pressure valves. The second generation valves was developed for the management of overdrainage problems and siphoning control. Japanese guidelines of iNPH recommended the use of the programmable valve for shunt system. Now, various shunt system have been developed for the treatment of hydrocephalus. After millennium, the new third generation shunt systems that are consisted with programmable valve and anti-siphon devices, are now line up for the management of iNPH. The new recognition of NPH and the familiarity with these various shunt devices are enable to the new stage of the clinical sciene of the diagnosis and the management of iNPH.