Re: Slit Ventricle Syndrome

Posted By CCF Neurosurgery MD/gm on May 18, 1998 at 22:01:11:

In Reply to: Slit Ventricle Syndrome posted by Mom of 12 y.o. w/spina bifida, hydrocephalus,etc. on May 14, 1998 at 00:30:56:






My 12 year old son with spina bifida, hydrocephalus, Arnold Chiari II
Syndrome, Tourette's Syndrome, ADD and Major Depression has very small
ventricles since he has had shunted hydrocephalus since 11 days old.
He will have very severe and long-lasting headaches (24 hrs is typical)
that appear to be slit ventricle syndrome.  He has an old shunt site
(4th shunt now in place is 10 years old) which acts like a "pressure
gauge" and it is sunken in during the occurence of these headaches.
No nausea, vomiting, etc. Since his current shunt is 10 yrs. old and still appears to be working
(too well, it seems) should I investigate newer shunting options that
would allow drainage but inhibit "over drainage"?  Are there newer
shunts that can do this?  Since he didn't have much luck with his first
three shunts (tissue blockage), I am quite happy that this one is 10.
However, I really can't stand how he suffers with the slit ventricle
syndrome.  What's new on this issue?  Who's doing what?  Good results?
Thank you.
Dear Mom:
There are new investigational shunt valves that can be electronically
adjusted to drain at a desired pressure. Your son may be a candidate for
implantation of one of these devices. I am not sure who is doing these
studies around the country but the Cleveland Clinic was involved with the
trials for this valve. If you are interested in an opinion here you may
call the office of Dr. Mark Luciano at [phone].
Good Luck!