Codman Hakim Programmable Shunt
The newest design in shunt valves is the Codman hakim adjustable shunt. This shunt has a pressure differential valve whose resistance can be altered using a magnet field transmitted through the skin. Thus, the valve settings can be changed during a routine office visit avoiding any surgery. Reports from Europe have stated that some patients have benefited from having this shunt. Clearly, siphoning occurs with this system so it is unclear to what degree the feature of valve adjustment will be of benefit.
Until recently, this valve was only available in the United States at institutions participating in an FDA study and the valve could only be implanted into individuals participating in this study. But this shunt won FDA approval!
Codman's Programmable Valve
The resistance of the valve can be programmed using an antenna whose emitted magnetic field rotates the stepper valve (5) to a desired position. The stepper adjusts the tension of the spring (2) which in turn imposes resistance on the ball valve (1). It should be noted that strong magnetic fields such as encountered in MRI scanners can change this valves settings.
Links to read more about this new and wonderful shunt
THE INSTITUTE FOR NEUROLOGY AND NEUROSURGERY
type in programmable valve (you will need to be able to open a PDF file)
Useful Links about shunts and Hydrocephalus
Want to read more on Hydrocephalus?
Got this image from a booklet given to us by CH called
"About Hydrocephalus"OR
All about Andrew | Spina Bifida info
