Causes & Risk Factors
Post-hemorrhagic ventricular dilation (PHVD)
Post-hemorrhagic ventricular dilation is enlargement of the ventricles following bleeding into them, which may progress to hydrocephalus needing treatment.
In short: Post-hemorrhagic ventricular dilation (PHVD)
- It is ventricular enlargement after intraventricular hemorrhage.
- It is common after hemorrhage in premature infants.
- It may stabilize or progress to hydrocephalus.
- It is monitored closely to decide on treatment.
What it is
Post-hemorrhagic ventricular dilation (PHVD) is enlargement of the ventricles that develops after bleeding into them (intraventricular hemorrhage), particularly in premature infants. It reflects the early phase of CSF accumulation following hemorrhage.
Understanding Post-hemorrhagic ventricular dilation (PHVD)
After intraventricular hemorrhage, blood and its breakdown products can impair CSF flow and absorption, causing the ventricles to enlarge. In some infants this dilation stabilizes on its own, while in others it progresses to hydrocephalus requiring treatment. Because the course varies, babies are monitored closely with serial head ultrasounds and head circumference measurements. When dilation progresses, temporizing measures (such as a reservoir or a temporary shunt) may be used, sometimes followed by a permanent shunt or ETV. The timing and choice of intervention are individualized.
Why it matters
Understanding PHVD helps families see why ventricular enlargement after hemorrhage is monitored closely, since it may either stabilize or progress, and why treatment decisions depend on how it evolves over time.
Common questions
What is post-hemorrhagic ventricular dilation?
Ventricular enlargement after bleeding into the ventricles.
Does it always need treatment?
No — it may stabilize or progress; it is monitored closely.
How is it monitored?
With serial head ultrasounds and head circumference measurements.
Bottom line
Post-hemorrhagic ventricular dilation is ventricular enlargement after hemorrhage that may stabilize or progress, requiring close monitoring.
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