Infantile hydrocephalus (commonly known as big-headed doll) is a common disease in infancy. The main reasons are congenital and acquired. Congenital hydrocephalus is the most common congenital nervous system malformation disease. Almost all congenital hydrocephalus is caused by the obstruction of cerebrospinal fluid channel. It is particularly common that the midbrain aqueduct and the outlet of the fourth ventricle of the ventricular system are blocked. The main causes are intrauterine infection, bleeding and genetic factors. Sometimes accompanied by other congenital diseases, such as spina bifida. Acquired hydrocephalus refers to hydrocephalus caused by other reasons after birth. Common types are as follows: 1. Hydrocephalus after ventricular hemorrhage; Common birth injuries, vascular diseases, etc. 2. Infectious hydrocephalus; Common is bacterial meningitis (such as tuberculous meningitis). 3. Tumor hydrocephalus; Intracranial tumor blocks cerebrospinal fluid circulation channel. 4. Intracranial abnormal hydrocephalus; For example, hyperosteogeny of skull base and increased venous pressure.
At present, the treatment of infantile hydrocephalus is the most effective, and the most certain is surgical treatment. The purpose of the operation is to divert the redundant hydrocephalus in the brain, or to open the blocked part of the ventricular system and establish a normal cerebrospinal fluid circulation channel. The traditional ventriculoperitoneal shunt is still effective, but with the extension of time, the shunt tube may be blocked for various reasons, and patients need reoperation.