• What is Hydrocephalus

-Hydrocephalus is a condition where the pressure of the fluid spaces of the brain increase. It has no medical long term treatment. If it is harmful to the child, it needs surgical treatment. For more information, see my educational video: https://youtu.be/x0_JRve3w0M

• What is Chiari (II) Malformation

-It is a condition where a baby is borne with a swelling over the back (Myelomeningocele: MMC) and has increased fluid in the brain. This usually needs atleast two surgeries: one for the back, and another for the fluid. There are many kids who live an almost normal life with this issue and hence early surgical treatment should be considered. For patients who have weakness in legs at birth or before surgery, there is very little the surgeon can do to change this one fact. after surgery, child may improve for about 6 months with physiotherapy help; but after that parents have to accept the deficit as "normal" for that child. If there is no weakness before surgery, there is very little chance that the child develops one after the surgery.

• What is Life expectancy of a child with brain tumor

-The overall survival of a child with brain tumor depends on what kind of tumor he or she has, and what is the condition of the child clinically. We wish to treat every child like " normal"; including children with brain tumors. Hence, we not only think of survival but also about life outside the hospital and outside " I have brain tumor -aspects of life" We try to facilitate their care in every aspect from admission-surgery-adjuvant therapy-rehabilitation -schooling and more. As long as the tumor is there, we and the entire team of physiotherapists, rehabilitation experts, neurologists, oncologists and pediatricians are going to be there for you; with you: for your child. We wish to become friends with your child and help in this difficult journey together.

• What is deformed head shape "craniosynostosis"

-There are some children who develop deformed head or what is known as "craniosynostosis". Not every child with craniosynostosis requires surgery. As neurosurgeons, we are mainly concerned with infrequent pressure on the brain, vision or hearing. The cosmetic issue is important; yes: but more for plastic surgeons. Nevertheless, Neurosurgeons and Plastic surgeons together handle these children surgically if and when it is indicated. The results are very good; and best when done before 2 years of age. For more information, see my educational video: https://youtu.be/overlz17HjY

• What are the chances children with hydrocephalus will be mentally challenged

-Doctors are not Gods. Hence, we can only provide an estimate from what has been published and seen; in our medical literature. The thickness of brain seen on MRI/ CT does not directly correlate with the intelligence of a person. Indeed, most people on the Earth have similar brain thickness levels. Yes; these kids are more prone to have issues later in life. Yes; the more the number of brain surgeries and meningitis or infections; more the chances child might develop intellectual difficulties; but these are all intelligent guesses. It is not necessary to happen; and certainly doesn't happen in everyone. All children with hydrocephalus who need treatment; should be treated.

• What to do if an Ultrasound done during pregnancy (after 20 weeks) reveals "increased water" in the brain

-The first step is not to panic. There are problems and most oft he times; solutions too:around us. It is best to consult a neurosurgeon at this juncture only. As of now, fetal surgeries are not recommended in India for Hydrocephalus. We will take you through the journey; advise fetal MRI if indicated, assess the baby once borne and then take a decision to intervene, if needed.

• What to do if an Ultrasound done during pregnancy(after 20 weeks) reveals a swelling at the back

- The first step is not to panic. There are problems and most oft he times; solutions too:around us. It is best to consult a neurosurgeon at this juncture only. As of now, fetal surgeries are not recommended in India for Myelomeningoceles and Split cord malformations. We will take you through the journey; advise fetal MRI if indicated, assess the baby once borne and then take a decision to intervene, if needed. if the baby is leaking fluid from the back, the baby needs surgery in 3 days. If not, we can wait till 3 months.

• What to do if a child falls down and bumps his head

-If the child is bleeding from ear/ nose/ head, vomiting, unconscious, convulsing, has a scalp swelling, is disoriented, is sleepy, or has droopy eyes: rush to the nearest emergency center.

If not, you can wait and see a neurosurgeon to decide about need for CT scan/ X-ray/ admission/ further intervention