The Strata programmable valve for shunt-dependent hydrocephalus: the pediatric experience at a single institution

Background and objective The Medtronic PS Medical Strata valve has pressure flow characteristics that are noninvasively adjusted with a magnetic tool. The objective of this study was to examine its efficacy during our initial experience with it in shunt-dependent children. Materials and methods A retrospective review of 53 children with a median age of 2.0 years who had 61 Strata valves implanted. Conclusion The Strata valve is efficacious in the treatment of shunt-dependant hydrocephalus in children. The 1-year shunt survival rate of 67.2% is comparable to that previously reported from a multicenter trial. Of the 30 therapeutically aimed adjustments during the study period, 16 (53.3%) resulted in improvement in abnormal signs or symptoms. Our data indicate that adjustments can be used to treat signs or symptoms of cerebrospinal fluid overdrainage or underdrainage, which may obviate the need for additional surgery.