Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)

NPH: Restoring Fluidity to Your Journey

Welcome to the Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) Center at Universal Hospital, where expertise and compassionate care come together to address this complex neurological condition. Our specialized team of neurologists and neurosurgeons is committed to providing advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment, and ongoing support for individuals living with NPH.

What is Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus?

Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) is a neurological disorder characterized by the buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain’s ventricles. Unlike other forms of hydrocephalus, the pressure of CSF remains within the normal range. NPH primarily affects older adults and often presents with a triad of symptoms:

  • Gait Disturbance: A shuffling walk, imbalance, and difficulty lifting the feet.
  • Cognitive Impairment: Memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and changes in executive function.
  • Urinary Incontinence: Issues with urinary control, including urgency and frequency.

Diagnosis and Evaluation

Our expert team employs a thorough approach to diagnose NPH, including:

  • Clinical Assessment: Detailed medical history and neurological examinations to evaluate symptoms and rule out other conditions.
  • Imaging Studies: Brain imaging (MRI or CT) to visualize the structure of the brain, assessing ventricle size and ruling out other causes.
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Tap Test (Lumbar Puncture): A diagnostic procedure involving the removal of a small amount of CSF to observe symptom improvement, helping confirm the diagnosis.
Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH)

Treatment Options

The primary treatment for NPH is surgical intervention. Our neurosurgeons specialize in the placement of a shunt, a device that diverts excess CSF away from the brain to relieve symptoms. Shunt placement is a well-established procedure that can significantly improve gait, cognitive function, and urinary control in many patients.

Prognosis and Ongoing Care

With timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, individuals with NPH can experience improvement in their symptoms. Regular follow-up care is essential to monitor shunt function and address any ongoing concerns. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive and ongoing support to enhance the quality of life for individuals with NPH.

Neurophysician

Neurophysician

Neurophysician

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