ventricular drainage
Also written as: EVD — external ventricular drainage
Surgical placement of a catheter into brain ventricles to drain cerebrospinal fluid.
Full Definition
Ventricular drainage is a neurosurgical procedure involving the placement of a catheter or drain directly into the brain's ventricular system to remove excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and reduce intracranial pressure. This can be accomplished through external ventricular drainage (EVD), where CSF drains into an external collection system, or internal drainage through shunt placement. The procedure is commonly used to treat hydrocephalus, monitor intracranial pressure, or provide temporary CSF diversion following brain injury or surgery. Proper catheter placement requires precise anatomical knowledge and often uses ultrasound or stereotactic guidance to ensure accurate positioning within the ventricular system.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as EVD when referring to external systems; distinguish from permanent shunt procedures.
In Context
- "Emergency ventricular drainage was performed for acute hydrocephalus." — emergency procedure note
- "The external ventricular drain showed clear CSF with normal cell counts." — daily assessment