What is an External Ventricular Drain Industry?

An external ventricular drain (EVD) is a medical device that is used to drain excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the brain's ventricles. CSF forms in the brain's ventricles and acts as a cushion or buffer for the brain and spinal cord. When excess CSF builds up in the ventricles, it causes increased pressure in the brain known as hydrocephalus. An EVD is a flexible plastic catheter that is inserted through a small incision in the scalp and threaded into one of the brain's ventricles. The other end of the EVD is connected to a drainage system that collects and records the amount of CSF drained from the brain. This helps relieve the pressure inside the skull and takes stress off of the brain tissues.

Indications for External Ventricular Drain Industry

There are several medical conditions that may require placement of an EVD by a neurosurgeon:

- Normal pressure hydrocephalus: Excess CSF causes the ventricles to enlarge even though brain pressure is normal. Symptoms include difficulty walking, urinary incontinence, and dementia.

- Obstructive hydrocephalus: Global External Ventricular Drain  Blockage of CSF flow (e.g. from tumor, hemorrhage, birth defects) causes a backup of CSF leading to increased pressure.

- Hemorrhagic stroke: Bleeding in or around the brain from a ruptured blood vessel adds volume and pressure that needs to be relieved.

- Traumatic brain injury: Concussions, lacerations and contusions cause swelling and restrict CSF flow necessitating drainage.

- Post-operative: Surgeries like tumor resection can disrupt CSF pathways temporarily requiring an EVD.

- Infectious hydrocephalus: Bacteria or viruses in the CSF may cause inflammation necessitating drainage and antibiotic treatment.

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