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Journal of Undergraduate Research

Keywords

CSF sniffer, hydrocephalus, cerebral spinal fluid

College

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering and Technology

Department

Mechanical Engineering

Abstract

The purpose of our research was to create a tool to help in the treatment of hydrocephalus; hydrocephalus is a disease in which an obstruction causes a build-up of cerebral spinal fluid (CSF), a liquid found in the brain. Artificial shunts or passageways are used to relocate excess CSF in the treatment of hydrocephalus. Shunts are commonly misplaced, further aggravating patients’ symptoms. We developed an instrument, the CSF Sniffer, to increase the accuracy of shunt placement; it informs the neurosurgeon of the location of the instrument tip in the brain by measuring the intensity of light reflected off the brain. CSF is stored in ventricles, compartments in the brain. With the CSF Sniffer, the neurosurgeon can locate the ventricle and choose a place near to, but not touching the ventricle wall to place the shunt. Successful implementation of the CSF Sniffer will allow shunt placement to be more precise, yet less invasive. In skilled hands, this tool will benefit patients by minimizing potential complications.

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