A new method for measuring cerebrospinal fluid flow in shunts

Abstract

✓ An implantable device for measurement of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow in a ventriculoperitoneal shunt tube has been developed. The unit is energized by an extracorporeal high-frequency generator (200 KHz), and electrolysis creates bubbles in the shunt tube. Velocity of bubble flow is detected by a pair of ultrasonic Doppler probes placed a certain distance apart on the skin surface and in parallel with the implanted tube. The CSF flow rate is calculated taking into account velocity and tube diameter, and is expressed in ml/min. The unit consists of a coil with a capacitor, a silicon diode to rectify the high frequency, and a Zener diode to regulate maximum output voltage of 20 V. The output is fed to a pair of platinum electrodes placed inside the unit's tunnel through which the CSF flows. These components are molded in epoxy resin and coated with medical-grade silicone rubber. In animal experiments, CSF flow rates ranging from 0.033 to 1.0 ml/min could be measured by this flowmeter. Clinically, CSF f...