ventricular catheter
A flexible tube surgically placed into the brain's ventricular system to drain cerebrospinal fluid or monitor pressure.
Full Definition
A ventricular catheter is a thin, flexible drainage tube that is surgically inserted through the brain parenchyma into the ventricular system to provide access for cerebrospinal fluid drainage, pressure monitoring, or medication administration. These catheters are essential components of various neurosurgical treatments including external ventricular drains for temporary CSF diversion, ventriculoperitoneal shunts for permanent hydrocephalus management, and intracranial pressure monitoring systems. Proper placement is crucial to avoid complications such as hemorrhage, infection, or malfunction, and positioning is typically confirmed with imaging studies.
Usage
Usage note: Specify catheter type (external vs. internalized) and purpose (drainage vs. monitoring) for clarity.
In Context
- "Post-operative CT confirmed appropriate placement of the ventricular catheter in the frontal horn of the right lateral ventricle." — Post-operative imaging report