Some children are born with a difference in the structure of the brain or spinal cord. The most common are hydrocephalus (too much fluid in the brain), spina bifida, Chiari malformation and encephalocele. Early assessment and, where needed, surgery can protect the child’s development and prevent complications.
Who it may help
- A head that is growing too fast, or a bulging soft spot
- Delayed milestones or loss of skills already learned
- Weakness, stiffness or deformity of the limbs
- Seizures or episodes of unresponsiveness
- A swelling, dimple or fluid-filled sac on the back or head
- Feeding difficulty, vomiting or poor weight gain in a baby
Conditions treated
- Hydrocephalus
- Spina bifida (myelomeningocele)
- Chiari malformation
- Encephalocele
- Tethered cord syndrome
- Dandy-Walker malformation
- Recurrent fluid build-up after infection or birth injury
Operations commonly used
- VP shunt A thin tube that drains extra fluid from the brain to the abdomen, where the body absorbs it.
- Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) A small opening made inside the brain with a camera so that fluid can drain naturally, without leaving a shunt in some children.
- Repair of myelomeningocele Closing the open spinal defect to protect the nerves and prevent infection.
- Chiari decompression Making more room at the base of the skull and top of the neck.
- Release of a tethered cord Freeing the spinal cord where it is held down.
Before the procedure
- MRI or ultrasound of the brain and spine
- Review by a pediatrician and a pediatric anaesthetist
- A full explanation to the family, in plain language
- Admission the day before, with a parent staying with the child where possible
Recovery: what to expect
- A hospital stay of about 3 to 5 days, depending on the operation.
- Intensive care is available for newborns and for infants at higher risk.
- The wound is checked over 7 to 10 days.
- Rest at home for about 2 to 3 weeks.
- Developmental therapy and physiotherapy are started early.
- MRI and a pediatric neurology review at around 1, 3 and 6 months.
These are typical timings. Your own plan depends on your condition, your general health and the operation chosen, and Dr. Chakraborty will go through it with you.
Risks to know about
Every operation carries risk. The ones most relevant here are:
- Infection or blockage of a shunt
- Need for a shunt revision as the child grows
- Bleeding or a leak of spinal fluid
- Persistent weakness or bladder and bowel problems from the underlying condition
Your own risks depend on your health and your scans, and are explained in detail before you decide on anything.
Common questions
Will my child be able to lead a normal life?
Many children do well with surgery, follow-up and therapy. The outlook depends on the condition and how early it is treated.
Will the shunt last forever?
Not always. A shunt may need to be revised as the child grows or if it blocks, and many last for years.
Is surgery safe for a newborn?
Surgery in newborns is delicate and is done with specialist pediatric anaesthesia and intensive-care support.
What follow-up is needed?
Scans and developmental checks every few months in the first year, then usually once a year.
This page is general information to help you prepare for a consultation. It is not medical advice and does not replace an examination. Every plan is made for the individual patient.