Hydrocephalus Treatment in San Diego, CA

Expert Care for Brain Fluid Disorders in Adults and Children

Hydrocephalus occurs when cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) builds up in the brain, causing pressure that can affect movement, balance, and cognitive function.
As a board-certified neurosurgeon with extensive experience in brain and spine conditions, Dr. Sanjay Ghosh provides advanced, compassionate treatment for patients with hydrocephalus in San Diego, CA.

With over two decades of neurosurgical expertise, Dr. Ghosh offers both traditional and minimally invasive solutions to restore normal fluid flow and protect brain health.

Call (619) 810-1010 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ghosh and learn more about your treatment options for hydrocephalus.

What Is Hydrocephalus?

Hydrocephalus is a condition where an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) increases pressure within the ventricles of the brain. This pressure can damage surrounding tissue and lead to symptoms such as:

  • Headaches or nausea
  • Gait imbalance or difficulty walking
  • Cognitive changes or memory problems
  • Vision disturbances
  • In infants: enlarged head size or delayed development

Hydrocephalus can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life from trauma, infection, or bleeding in the brain.

Types of Hydrocephalus

Understanding the cause helps determine the best treatment plan. Common types include:

  • Communicating Hydrocephalus: CSF flows freely within the ventricles but is reabsorbed poorly.
  • Non-Communicating (Obstructive) Hydrocephalus: A blockage prevents normal CSF drainage.
  • Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH): Often seen in older adults, causing walking imbalance, memory loss, and urinary changes.
  • Congenital Hydrocephalus: Present at birth due to abnormal brain development.

Dr. Ghosh carefully diagnoses the type and severity of hydrocephalus using advanced imaging and neurological assessments before recommending treatment.

Treatment Options for Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus treatment aims to restore proper CSF flow and relieve pressure on the brain. Dr. Ghosh specializes in surgical and minimally invasive approaches based on each patient’s needs.

  • Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) Shunt Placement
    • A thin, flexible tube (shunt) diverts excess fluid from the brain to another area of the body, such as the abdomen, where it’s absorbed naturally.
  • Endoscopic Third Ventriculostomy (ETV)
    • A minimally invasive procedure that creates a new pathway inside the brain’s ventricles, allowing fluid to flow freely—often eliminating the need for a shunt.
  • Shunt Revision or Replacement
    • For patients with existing shunts, Dr. Ghosh performs evaluations and replacements when necessary to restore proper function.

Both adults and children benefit from his personalized, precision-based approach that prioritizes safety and long-term results.

Ready to take the next step?

Schedule an appointment with Dr. Sanjay Ghosh to discuss which hydrocephalus treatment option best fits your needs.

Life After Hydrocephalus Surgery

Recovery depends on the type of surgery and the patient’s age, but most individuals experience significant symptom relief after treatment.

Dr. Ghosh and his team provide long-term follow-up at his Mission Valley clinic, including imaging, shunt monitoring, and rehabilitation support to ensure lasting stability and improved quality of life.

Why Choose Dr. Sanjay Ghosh

  • Board-Certified Neurosurgeon with 20+ years of experience
  • Expertise in hydrocephalus, shunt surgery, and minimally invasive neurosurgery
  • Performs procedures at Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla, University Ambulatory Surgery Center, and Outpatient Surgery Center of La Jolla
  • Known for advanced surgical precision, compassionate communication, and lifelong patient support

Patients from across San Diego County trust Dr. Ghosh for comprehensive care and advanced solutions for hydrocephalus and other brain conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the early warning signs of hydrocephalus?

How is hydrocephalus diagnosed?

What’s the difference between shunt surgery and ETV?

Can it recur after surgery?

Is hydrocephalus treatable in adults?

Explore Related Procedures

Learn more about other advanced spine procedures performed by Dr. Ghosh:

Brain Tumors 
It can block CSF flow and increase intracranial pressure.

Ependymoma
Tumors within the ventricular system that directly affect CSF pathways.

Cerebral Aneurysms
Vascular issues that may contribute to pressure-related symptoms.

Pituitary Adenoma
Growths near structures involved in fluid regulation.

Gamma Knife Radiosurgery
Non-invasive treatment used for select cranial tumors and functional disorders.

 

Trusted Neurosurgical Care Across San Diego County

Dr. Sanjay Ghosh proudly provides expert neurosurgical care for patients across San Diego County, including Carlsbad, Carmel Valley, Chula Vista, Clairemont, Coronado, Del Mar, El Cajon, Encinitas, Hillcrest / Bankers Hill, La Jolla, La Mesa, Mira Mesa, Mission Valley, Poway, Rancho Bernardo, Rancho Santa Fe, Santee, Scripps Ranch, Solana Beach, and University City / UTC.

Patients throughout the region rely on Dr. Ghosh’s Mission Valley clinic for advanced brain and spine treatment with compassionate, individualized care.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

If you or a loved one has symptoms of hydrocephalus, early diagnosis and treatment can make all the difference.
Dr. Sanjay Ghosh and his dedicated team provide comprehensive, personalized care for both adult and pediatric patients.

Start Your Hydrocephalus Treatment

Call or request your consultation online to schedule an evaluation for hydrocephalus treatment in San Diego.