What does enlarged brain ventricles indicate?

Hydrocephalus is the abnormal enlargement of the brain cavities (ventricles) caused by a build-up of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Usually, the body maintains a constant circulation and absorption of CSF. Untreated, hydrocephalus can result in brain damage or death.

What does the third ventricle of the brain do?

The third ventricle is one of the four ventricles in the brain that communicate with one another. As with the other ventricles of the brain, it is filled with cerebrospinal fluid, which helps to protect the brain from injury and transport nutrients and waste.

What happens when the lateral ventricle is damaged?

Once the lateral ventricle is damaged, it will cause some severe problems such as ventricle hemorrhage, which will lead to cerebrospinal fluid occlusion, hydrocephalus, ventricular expansion, increased intracranial pressure, brain herniation, brain stem, and hypothalamus damage.

What are the 3 ventricles of the brain?

The ventricles of the brain are a communicating network of cavities filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and located within the brain parenchyma. The ventricular system is composed of 2 lateral ventricles, the third ventricle, the cerebral aqueduct, and the fourth ventricle (see the images below).

What is the life expectancy of someone with hydrocephalus?

Survival in untreated hydrocephalus is poor. Approximately, 50% of the affected patients die before three years of age and approximately 80% die before reaching adulthood. Treatment markedly improves the outcome for hydrocephalus not associated with tumors, with 89% and 95% survival in two case studies.

What is the purpose of the ventricles?

Function. Aside from cerebrospinal fluid, your brain ventricles are hollow. Their sole function is to produce and secret cerebrospinal fluid to protect and maintain your central nervous system.

What does the left lateral ventricle of the brain do?

The lateral ventricles are the largest in the series of four interconnecting fluid-filled cavities within the brain. The function of the ventricles is to house the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and provide the passage for its circulation.

How long is hospital stay for shunt surgery?

About the Shunt Operation The actual surgical procedure to implant a shunt typically requires about an hour in the operating room. Afterward, you will be carefully observed for 24 hours. Your stay in the hospital will generally be for two to four days total.