
Magnetic Externally Adjustable Shunt Valves There are two types of adjustable CSF shunt valves: magnetic externally adjustable and non-magnetic externally adjustable. Adjustable shunt valves allow for changes to the amount of fluid that flows through the valve. Fixed shunt valves allow CSF fluid to drain when CSF pressure exceeds a certain “fixed” threshold. There are two types of CSF shunt valves: fixed and adjustable. Sinicropi performs surgery in the following Minnesota cities: Edina, Burnsville, Roseville, Woodbury, Maplewood, Stillwater.Figure 1: Side-view of implanted CSF shunt system. Results may vary from person to person.ĭr. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice. If you think you may have a medical emergency or a major medical problem, call your doctor or 911 immediately. Individuals should always consult a licensed and qualified health care provider for evaluation, diagnosis and treatment recommendations regarding their specific spine or other medical problems. Sinicropi has performed these specific surgeries. These assessments do not indicate that Dr. Sinicropi periodically provides assessments and commentary on specific procedures that individuals have undergone.

It should NOT be regarded as diagnostic, treatment or any other type of specific medical advice to anyone. The information contained on this site is intended to provide only general education about spine surgery and conditions. Doctors will view the fluid after surgery to make sure the leak has stopped, and then you’ll track your symptoms in the next few days to see if problems alleviate. Blood patches are generally successful, but surgery may be necessary if it doesn’t fix the problem.
#Spinal fluid Patch
If the surgeon believes a more hands-on approach is necessary, you may be given a form of steroids to help expedite the healing process, or a surgical repair or blood patch operation may be performed. Treatment will depend on your symptoms and the location of the leak, but common treatment techniques include rest and hydration, as the body has the ability to heal some leaks on its own. This procedure involves puncturing the spinal canal and injecting a dye to allow the doctor to view the fluid, as well as search for leaks. If the doctor has a good idea as to the location of the leak, they may be able to use imaging techniques to diagnose the problem, however, if the location is unknown, a lumbar puncture may be performed. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, especially if you just underwent a medical procedure, you should consider visiting a spinal specialist. Symptoms of leak or improper levels of cerebrospinal fluid include:Ĭerebrospinal Fluid Diagnosis and Treatment Some patients also report symptoms after experiencing whiplash, and leaks have been known to develop when caused by the development of spinal bone spurs. Trauma to the spine or an accidental puncture during a separate spinal procedure or while anesthesia is being administered are other common causes of cerebrospinal fluid leaks. For example, if your body has too much cerebrospinal fluid, a procedure may be needed to drain it to a correct level, but leaks can occur if the draining opening doesn’t seal correctly. A leak can occur if the area is not well-maintained during a surgical operation where the fluid is drained. Leaking spinal fluid is a rare development, but it most commonly occurs in the thoracic area of our spine. But before we describe symptoms of spinal fluid loss, let’s explain what causes spinal fluid leaks. This can cause a shortage of fluid, which can lead to a number of painful symptoms. Causes and Symptoms Of Spinal Fluid LeaksĬerebrospinal fluid flows throughout our spinal canal and brain area, but if a hole develops in an area where fluid passes, leaks can occur.

#Spinal fluid how to
Today, we take a closer look at what can cause a cerebrospinal fluid leak, as well as how to treat the issue. It helps deliver key nutrients to these areas as well as reduce waste products, and problems can occur if this liquid leaks out of the spinal canal. Spinal Fluid Leaks – Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Category: Spine | Author: Stefano Sinicropi | Date: May 2, 2017Ĭerebrospinal fluid is a clear liquid that protects the central nervous system in your brain and spine.
