How Much Does It Cost To Treat Hydrocephalus In Dogs?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

, , , ,

How much does hydrocephalus treatment cost? Medical management can be very cost-effective and inexpensive. Surgery requires veterinary specialists and can cost between

$4,000 to $10,000

for surgery and intensive care before and after.

How long does a dog live with hydrocephalus?

The hydrocephalic dog typically has a very limited life span. Severity differs, but few dogs with this condition live to be

over two years of age

.

How much is hydrocephalus treatment?

Initial Treatment & Outcome Total Cost
New VPS insertion


$115,420.25
ETV redo $145,159.57

Can hydrocephalus in dogs be treated?

Treatment of Hydrocephalus in Dogs


Severe cases of hydrocephalus will be treated with corticosteroids, anti-seizure medications, furosemide, acetazolamide or omeprazole as needed and as directed by your veterinarian

. In some instances, surgery to place a ventriculoperitoneal shunt can be performed.

Can a puppy grow out of hydrocephalus?

Unfortunately, shunts often have complications including infection and blockage from tissue or clots.

If they are implanted in small puppies, they often require replacement as the dog grows

. Hydrocephalus can be difficult for dogs and their owners and usually results in a shortened life span.

How do I know if my puppy has hydrocephalus?

Clinical signs associated with congenital hydrocephalus include

abnormal or spastic walking, changes in behavior, circling or falling over on one side, and failure to housetrain or learn basic commands

. It is important to note that not all puppies with large fontanels will develop hydrocephalus.

Are dogs with hydrocephalus in pain?

Some dogs show no symptoms at all of hydrocephalus. Although,

if it goes untreated and fluid continues to build in the skull, it's likely that signs of pain and other symptoms will appear

. Sometimes a 's head will appear enlarged because the skull hasn't fused yet.

Does hydrocephalus go away?

Hydrocephalus is a condition of the brain where there is a pressure-induced deterioration of brain functions.

It does not go away on its own and needs special treatment

. Hydrocephalus is due to the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the cavities deep within the brain. These cavities are called ventricles.

How much is the cost of the shunt?

Cost Programmable Fixed Index shunt $3320 (2907–3663) $1492 (718–1508) Shunt replacement $3206 (2906–3578) $1601 (1435–2186) Catheter revision $158 (81–215) $372 (129–570)
Total cost per patient


$3438 (2938–3876)


$1504 (753–1584)

Can hydrocephalus be treated without surgery?


There is currently no definitive cure

. Most patients are managed by shunting using a silicone tube and valve system, where CSF is diverted from the cerebral ventricles to another body site [3].

What happens if hydrocephalus is not treated?

Hydrocephalus can permanently damage the brain, causing problems with physical and mental development. If untreated,

it is usually fatal

. With treatment, many people lead normal lives with few limitations. Treatment usually involves surgery to insert a shunt.

Can hydrocephalus cause aggression in dogs?

There are few is any signs in mild cases. However,

more severe cases of Hydrocephalus are associated with a variety of neurological signs, sometimes including aggression

. The definite test for Hydrocephalus is a Computed Tomography (CT) scan or a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

Is hydrocephalus genetic in dogs?

Hydrocephalus in dogs indeed is

frequently hereditary, although not in 100 percent of cases

. The process can start before birth, the emergence of the immoderate fluid doesn't take place until afterward. Signs of inherited hydrocephalus tend to show up early on in puppies, often when they're merely weeks in age.

What are 4 types of hydrocephalus?

  • Congenital hydrocephalus , which is present at birth. …
  • Acquired hydrocephalus, which develops at the time of birth or later. …
  • Normal-pressure hydrocephalus, which usually develops in people who are age 55 or older.
Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.