How do you get rid of excess fluid on the brain?

The key treatment for hydrocephalus is a shunt. A shunt is a thin tube implanted in the brain to drain away the excess CSF to another part of the body (often the abdominal cavity, the space around the bowel) where it can be absorbed into the bloodstream.

What causes a build up of fluid on the brain?

Hydrocephalus, also called water in the brain, is a condition where there is an abnormal build up of CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) in the cavities (ventricles) of the brain. The build-up is often caused by an obstruction that prevents proper fluid drainage.

What happens when fluid builds up in the brain?

Hydrocephalus is a build-up of fluid in the brain. The excess fluid puts pressure on the brain, which can damage it. If left untreated, hydrocephalus can be fatal.

What happens if cerebrospinal fluid drained out around the brain?

The loss of CSF causes the previously cushioned brain to sag inside the skull, which results in a headache. Loss of fluid also causes a lowering of pressure within the skull, a condition called intracranial hypotension.

What causes fluid to build up in the abdomen?

Ascites occurs when portal hypertension develops. The kidneys cannot rid the body of enough sodium (salt) through urine. Not being able to rid the body of salt causes fluids to build up in the abdomen, resulting in ascites. What are the symptoms of ascites? Most people who develop ascites develop a large belly and experience a rapid gain in weight.

Can a drainage tube cause a seroma after surgery?

Even though drainage tubes are typically used in and around an incision to remove fluid and prevent a seroma, sometimes some fluid remains after surgery and over time it can cause a seroma. Or a seroma can occur if drainage tubes aren’t used during surgery and the fluid has no place to go.

How is fluid removed from the abdominal wall?

Paracentesis is a procedure in which a needle is inserted through the abdominal wall (after local anesthesia) and fluid is removed. This fluid is examined for signs of infection, cancer, or other medical problems.

Why does the body produce clear fluid after surgery?

When blood vessels and lymphatics get damaged through the normal course of invasive surgical procedures, the body mounts an inflammatory response, resulting in the production of clear fluid. The body is able to absorb a certain amount of this inflammatory fluid each day.