Vps medical abbreviation

Hydrocephalus, often referred to as “water on the brain,” is a neurological condition that can be quite severe. It occurs when cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is normally produced and reabsorbed at specific rates, becomes imbalanced, leading to an accumulation of fluid in the brain’s ventricles. To treat hydrocephalus surgically, a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) is typically utilized. This involves inserting a catheter into the brain’s ventricle to drain excess fluid into the abdomen. A valve in the shunt system ensures that fluid only flows in one direction, preventing it from traveling backward and maintaining proper drainage. When the pressure becomes too high, the shunt automatically drains the excess fluid, helping to alleviate symptoms associated with hydrocephalus.