Is a shunt or a third ventriculostomy supposed to stop the symptoms of dizziness and disorientation..?

Question

In hydrocephalus? Can it help with symptoms that make you feel like your on a rocky boat or an earthquake?

(I know how the shunt and 3rd vent works, but will they help these symptoms?)

Answer 1

There are two types of hydrocephalus, communicating and obstructive. Communicating hydrocephalus is caused by either an overproduction of CSF in the brain of trouble reabsorbing it. Obstructive hydrocephalus is caused by a blockage of CSF flow within the ventricles or CSF pathways.

The site of blockage often lies within the narrow passage between the third and fourth ventricles. It can also be where the CSF exits the fourth ventricle. Because of the blockage, the ventricles no longer provide free passage of CSF through them into the subarachnoid space where it is reabsorbed. Obstructive hydrocephalus can be caused by tumors, cysts, or congenital defects, such as, aqueductal stenosis.

The shunt will help with the symptoms you mention but besides the shunt, medication might also be needed.

Answer 2

What is the pathology causing the hydrocephalus?  Cannot answer the question unless we know if there is disease in the posterior fossa or not.