Can fetal hydrocephalus be treated?

Fetal hydrocephalus is a disease that can be treated with surgery, medication, and follow-up care. Whether it can be fully recovered depends on the severity and timing of treatment. Hydrocephalus is a condition in which cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain, causing abnormally high pressure. Once diagnosed during the fetal stage, timely treatment can effectively reduce complications.

Fetal hydrocephalus may be caused by genetic factors, such as gene mutations or family history, or it may be related to the pregnancy environment, such as maternal infection (toxoplasmosis, rubella, etc.), drug exposure or malnutrition. Physiological causes include poor circulation or obstructed excretion of cerebrospinal fluid. Some cases may be related to fetal malformations or other structural abnormalities (such as spina bifida). Mild to moderate hydrocephalus may not have a serious impact on fetal development, but severe hydrocephalus may compress brain tissue, leading to developmental delay or damage to the nervous system. After diagnosis, prenatal imaging examinations can be used to assess the extent of the hydrocephalus and the severity of the disease.

Treatment methods usually include three types: surgical treatment, drug intervention and comprehensive care. Surgery is currently the main treatment method, such as shunt surgery and ventriculostomy, which can help cerebrospinal fluid flow normally, thereby reducing intracranial pressure; drug treatment can control the symptoms of hydrocephalus, such as the use of diuretics to reduce cerebrospinal fluid production; increasing the intake of nutrients such as folic acid during pregnancy also has an auxiliary effect on fetal development. After treatment, brain development needs to be closely monitored to help children restore normal body functions to the maximum extent.

It is recommended to have regular prenatal checkups during pregnancy to detect abnormal changes in time. After hydrocephalus is confirmed, choose a professional prenatal medical institution for detailed evaluation and develop a treatment plan based on expert advice. Maintain good living habits during pregnancy, avoid infection, control blood sugar, and supplement sufficient folic acid as prescribed by the doctor to increase the chances of healthy fetal survival. Timely neurological rehabilitation and regular follow-up after birth can also further improve the prognosis.