Long-Term Efficacy of Shunt Therapy in Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus.

Background: Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is one of the very few treatable types of dementia. Shunt therapy has been shown to be effective in improving symptoms. However, the long-term results of cerebrospinal fluid diversion are variable. The aim of this retrospective study was to investigate long-term outcomes of patients with idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus treated with ventriculoperitoneal shunt by using programmable valves. Methods: Symptoms before treatment were recorded. Clinical symptoms and outcome after ventriculoperitoneal shunt were assessed based on changes in gait, urinary incontinence, and cognitive dysfunction at yearly follow-up spanning at least …