Ventricular access device

What it is

A ventricular access device is a general term for an implanted device that provides access to a brain ventricle, allowing cerebrospinal fluid to be drained or sampled through the skin. A ventricular reservoir (such as an Ommaya reservoir) is a common example.

Understanding Ventricular access device

Such a device consists of a small port or reservoir under the scalp connected to a catheter in a ventricle. It allows clinicians to remove CSF (to control pressure or sample for testing) repeatedly and in a controlled way. In hydrocephalus, ventricular access devices are used particularly as temporizing measures in small or premature infants, buying time until a permanent treatment is appropriate. They provide an alternative to a fully externalized drain for repeated access. The specific device and how it is used are chosen based on the situation. Understanding the general concept helps families recognize the various named devices that serve this purpose.

Why it matters

Understanding the ventricular access device helps families recognize the general purpose behind various named devices — providing repeated access to a ventricle to drain or sample CSF, often as a temporizing measure.