Recent advances in the understanding and treatment of hydrocephalus.

Advances in the management of patients with hydrocephalus and other abnormalities of cerebrospinal fluid dynamics and intracranial pressure have come from a variety of sources including an improved understanding of the pathophysiology of the various subtypes of the problem, development of alternative methods of treating the condition without reliance on implantable shunting devices, use of neuroendoscopy, and the development of newer types of shunt valves. The purpose of this review is to put into perspective the relative importance of each of these advances to the overall management of our patients.