Hydrocephalus in Africa: A surgical perspective

"Hydrocephalus is the excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the cranial vault due to excessive production or inadequate absorption. The management of hydrocephalus in developing nations is hindered by significant economic constraints and delays in treatment - most patients in fact do not present for at least seven months after the onset of clinical symptoms (1). CSF shunts are expensive and not always available, but can be used to treat hydrocephalus regardless of etiology. The management of hydrocephalus and the complications associated with its treatment require considerable surgical judgment and a life-long approach to patient follow-up."@eng