A brain drainage typically refers to a medical procedure performed to remove excess fluid from within or around the brain. A common and illustrative example of such a procedure, as highlighted in medical contexts, is External ventricular drainage (EVD).
External Ventricular Drainage (EVD): A Temporary Method
Based on medical descriptions, External ventricular drainage (EVD) is a temporary method of draining cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the ventricles in the brain. This procedure is crucial when there's a buildup of CSF, which needs to be relieved.
Let's break down the key components mentioned in this definition:
Understanding Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)
- What it is: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear, colorless body fluid found in the brain and spinal cord.
- Its Role: The brain and spinal cord are surrounded by CSF, which helps to protect them by cushioning impacts and removing waste products.
What Are Brain Ventricles?
- Location: The areas in the brain that contain this fluid (CSF) are called ventricles. These are a system of interconnected cavities within the brain.
Key Characteristics of EVD
Based on the provided reference, the core aspects of External Ventricular Drainage include:
- It is a temporary solution.
- It specifically targets cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
- The drainage occurs directly from the ventricles in the brain.
In essence, procedures like EVD serve as a vital intervention to manage fluid pressure within the brain by providing a route for CSF to be removed.
