{"id":"8b5da6fd-d394-465b-a1d0-6c6445992e67","slug":"invasive-to-innovative-endovascular-shunt-as-the-future-of-hydrocephalus-treatment-in-pediatric-population-in-lower-middle-income-countries","title":"Invasive to innovative: Endovascular shunt as the future of hydrocephalus treatment in pediatric population in lower-middle-income countries","authors":["Ahtesham Khizar","Syed Haider Hassan","Junaid Saffi","Haseeb Mehmood Qadri","Asif Bashir"],"abstract":"Background: Hydrocephalus is characterized by an imbalance in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) production or absorption, leading to ventricular expansion. It is prevalent in the pediatric population at a rate of 88/100,000. Treatment typically involves shunt implantation to divert CSF, with various types of shunts being used, including ventriculoperitoneal and ventriculo-atrial shunts. Summary: Despite the availability of treatment options, complications from shunt procedures are common, particularly in lower-middle-income countries, where infection rates can be as high as 9.4%. The endovascular minimally invasive CSF shunt (eShunt) offers a potential alternative, allowing for a less invasive approach that may reduce complications and improve patient outcomes. Initial studies suggest that the eShunt system could provide effective CSF drainage without the risks associated with traditional shunting methods. Conclusion: The eShunt system represents a promising advancement in hydrocephalus treatment, particularly for pediatric patients in lower-middle-income countries. However, further research, including randomized controlled trials, is necessary to establish its safety and efficacy before widespread implementation. Keywords: hydrocephalus, endovascular shunt, pediatric, CSF diversion, minimally invasive, shunt complications, lower-middle-income countries","thumbnailUrl":"https://sni-digital-videos.s3.amazonaws.com/placeholders/specialty/none.png","publishDate":"2025-11-28T00:00:00.000Z","doi":"10.25259/SNI_729_2025","categories":["Guest Editorial"],"fullTextUrl":"https://surgicalneurologyint.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/14106/SNI-16-505.pdf"}