Often mentioned and rarely explained – A short article about the functionality and use of LiquoGuard® a device which is able to support clinical staff and save valuable time.
What is CSF?
The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a body fluid found in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It circulates in a system of communicating cavities. The body produces about 500-700 ml of CSF in the four ventricles every day. At the same time, the body continuously resorbs the CSF, for example through the lymph vessels, so that the amount of circulating fluid is constant.
Why can CSF pressure be too high?
If CSF production is too high or if the CSF cannot drain off properly, a so-called hydrocephalus internus develops. This is a congestion of the cerebral fluid in the ventricle system. It can have several causes. For example, because a tumour, a cerebral hemorrhage or other swelling may block the drainage channels. Tissue can swell in the head, for example as a result of head injury, which prevents the natural flow of brain fluid.
What are the consequences of too high CSF-pressure?
This can put pressure on the brain (cerebral pressure), which can be life-threatening. In order to avert this danger to life, the pressure must be derived from the ventricle. For this reason, a tube or a thin needle (Duisburg needle) is inserted through the skullcap into the ventricle system from the outside in a small operation, which can be performed either in the operating theatre or on the bed side in the intensive care unit. The cerebrospinal fluid can then escape through this drainage and the CSF pressure is normalizing again.
LiquoGuard® function and application
Now the LiquoGuard® comes into play, which represents a revolutionary step in the drainage of CSF.
LiquoGuard® is the only CSF management system worldwide that drains and simultaneously measures CSF pressure under controlled conditions. Thus, many optimizations can be achieved in comparison to conventional systems: Drainage safety is maximized, patient well-being is increased, treatment costs are reduced and unique patient mobility can be achieved. Especially paediatric patients with a stronger desire to move can quickly be given back a piece of quality of life.
