Treatment of Dandy-Walker Syndrome in Israel Using Progressive Surgical Techniques

The equipping of pediatric departments with high-precision equipment allows for the rapid determination of the causes of pathological changes, description of the signs of pathology, and prognosis of disease progression. Additionally, the types of diagnostic procedures used allow for the detection of the disease in the fetus during intrauterine development. The effectiveness of the treatment process is significantly enhanced by a multidisciplinary approach, which involves the participation of a group of specialized professionals in the diagnosis and development of the treatment program. Parents of patients leave reviews in which they speak about the effectiveness of the therapy conducted and the creation of comfortable conditions in the clinic. An important advantage is also the affordable cost of treatment.

Treatment methods for the disease

The Dandy-Walker syndrome, or malformation, is a congenital defect in the development of the brain, manifested by disruption of the structure and functions of the cerebellum, blockage of the pathways for the outflow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the brain ventricles, and resulting in hydrocephalus.

The exact causes of the pathology are unknown. For many years, it was believed that the only factor causing the development of the syndrome was hereditary predisposition. However, it was later found that in children of women who do not suffer from genetic disorders but who consumed alcoholic beverages throughout their pregnancy, this pathology is diagnosed with increased frequency. There is also an increased incidence of Dandy-Walker syndrome in infants whose mothers had rubella or cytomegalovirus infection during pregnancy.

The clinical symptoms of the pathology include an increase in the size of the child's head, protrusion of the occipital bones, hydrocephalus, increased intracranial pressure, seizures, and hyperkinesia. In older children, coordination disorders, epileptiform seizures, nystagmus, and delays in mental and physical development are noted. The majority of patients exhibit intellectual disability, psycho-emotional disorders, and inability to socialize. The most common complications include cardiovascular pathologies, kidney function disorders, and ophthalmological diseases.

The treatment program includes courses of medication, surgical treatment, and physiotherapeutic procedures.

Medication treatment

In cases of mild forms of the disease with weakly expressed symptoms and the absence of serious complications, immediate specific therapy is not prescribed for the patient. Israeli doctors believe that in such situations, it is preferable to replace most common treatment methods with a course of symptomatic medications. To reduce the production and accumulation of CSF, diuretics are prescribed to the patient. Along with preventing the development and progression of hydrocephalus, diuretics are used to prevent kidney function disorders and the occurrence of cardiopathies. Additionally, muscle relaxants are indicated for the child to relieve increased muscle tone and normalize coordination. The patient is also prescribed analgesics and sedative medications.

Surgical treatment

The only effective method, mandatory in cases of disease progression and in severe cases, is the performance of neurosurgical operations.

• Shunting — a technique indicated for most patients with Dandy-Walker syndrome. The essence of this operation is the installation of a special drainage tube with valves in the brain ventricle, through which cerebrospinal fluid is drained from the brain into the abdominal cavity. Normalization of CSF outflow helps eliminate hydrocephalus, reduce intracranial pressure to normal levels, and alleviate and relieve symptoms. The most significant drawback of this common technique is the clogging of drainage tubes, the replacement of which requires a repeat operation.
• Ventriculostomy — a modern endoscopic operation aimed at creating an opening in the floor of the ventricle for the outflow of accumulated cerebrospinal fluid into the extra-ventricular cisterns. The neurosurgeon performs the manipulations through a small hole made in the skull, visually controlling the procedure on a monitor, where enlarged images captured by the neuroendoscope's camera are transmitted. The advantages of this surgical intervention method include low invasiveness and brevity.

Physiotherapeutic procedures

As part of the treatment course and throughout life, to maintain normal well-being, the patient needs to regularly undergo various physiotherapy procedures. Relief from headaches and a sedative effect are often achieved through the intake of herbal decoctions. The elimination of excessive muscle tension and improvement of motor functions are achieved through the patient taking baths with infusions of valerian, mint, lemon balm, and pine oil additives. Positive effects are also provided by electrophoresis with a number of medications. Additionally, the child is prescribed therapeutic gymnastics and massage sessions.

Modern methods of diagnosing the disease

In Israeli medical centers, the comprehensive examination necessary for establishing a definitive diagnosis, deciding on the need for immediate specific treatment, and developing a therapeutic program takes about three days.

How much does treatment of the disease cost

Advantages of treatment in Israel

• Doctors with immense clinical experience and worldwide recognition.
• Clinics equipped with high-precision equipment.
• Endoscopic neurosurgical operations.
• Latest generation medications.
• Affordable prices.

Timely accurate diagnosis and adequate therapeutic course will improve well-being and ensure the possibility of normal further development for the child. Do not waste time, contact the Israeli clinic and trust your child's health to world-renowned doctors.