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Updated: May 2, 2026
14:59
Neuronavigation and Laparoscopy Guided Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Insertion for the Treatment of Hydrocephalus
Published on: October 14, 2022
12.3K
Comment: the trouble with "n" in normal-pressure hydrocephalus.
1From The Sandra and Malcolm Berman Brain & Spine Institute, Adult Hydrocephalus Center, and Center for Gait and Mobility, Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, MD.
Neurology
|March 18, 2014
Summary
Idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is a reversible condition affecting older adults. While shunts are the primary treatment, further research is needed for adjunctive therapies.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is a clinical syndrome characterized by gait disturbance, cognitive decline, and urinary incontinence.
- This condition primarily affects individuals over 65 years of age and is potentially reversible.
- Current management relies solely on surgical shunt implantation, with limited non-surgical options.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the unmet need for pharmacologic treatments in iNPH.
- To review the current treatment landscape and identify gaps in care.
- To stimulate further research into adjunctive therapies for iNPH.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on iNPH.
- Analysis of recommendations from the 2005 NIH workshop on hydrocephalus.
- Synthesis of current evidence regarding shunt efficacy and limitations.
Main Results:
- Shunt surgery remains the only established effective treatment for iNPH.
- A significant need for adjunctive pharmacologic treatments was identified.
- The limitations of current surgical interventions necessitate exploration of alternative therapies.
Conclusions:
- Further investigation into pharmacologic adjunctive treatments for iNPH is warranted.
- Developing non-surgical treatment options could improve patient outcomes.
- Addressing the need for pharmacologic therapies may enhance management of iNPH.
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