Computer simulations of shunt performance in hydrocephalus

A five-compartment mathematical model of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) system has been developed to allow analysis of system control mechanisms, to aid in the understanding of the pathogenesis of hydrocephalus, and to facilitate the design of shunt device to treat this disorder. The CSF system is model using a five-compartment electric circuit analog, which divides the CSF flow pathway into the four ventricles and the subarachnoid space. The model incorporates the pressure-sensitive elements of the CSF flow system, which include ventricular compliance, outflow resistance, and CSF formation. In addition, age-dependent relationships that further characterize the pressure-volume index and the CSF formation rate are included in the model.<>