Hydrocephalus
Hydrocephalus is caused by the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid within the ventricles of the brain. The accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid can be caused by the obstruction of its normal flow through the brain, failure of absorption, or rarely, by an excess production of fluid by some tumors. Hydrocephalus can lead to dangerous elevations of intracranial pressure.
Symptoms
Hydrocephalus can be present at birth or caused by traumatic injury or diseases such as meningitis and cancer. Symptoms in infants include an unusually large head size, vomiting, sleepiness, and seizures. Older children and adults may experience headaches, vomiting, nausea, vision problems, balance and coordination disturbances, urinary incontinence, and personality or cognitive changes.
Dr. Wirchansky treats hydrocephalus with the surgical placement of a shunt system, which relieves pressure on the brain by diverting the cerebral spinal fluid to another part of the body where it can be absorbed as part of the normal circulatory process.
1%
Seniors
Develop normal pressure hydrocephalus, which is often confused with Alzheimer’s
5%
Dementia Patients
Have normal pressure hydrocephalus but may never be diagnosed
95%
Survival Rate
Death rates have decreased from 54% to 5% over the past 25 years
My goal is to give the patient the most relief with the smallest operation.
I do not believe in 'one size fits all.' Each patient has a unique biology and therefore requires a tailored surgical approach.
I hope my patients see me as approachable and relatable.
It’s important to me that my patients get all their questions answered.
My patients get the best of both worlds: expertise and a down-to-earth attitude.