Normal pressure hydrocephalus, also called NPH, is an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluidCerebrospinal fluid is a clear, colorless fluid that is found in the brain. It helps the brain by acting like a protective pillow and also provides nourishment and helps remove waste. in the brain. NPH usually affects adults over 60 years of age and older and is often mistaken for Parkinson’s diseaseParkinson’s disease is a brain disorder that can cause uncontrollable movements such as shaking or stiffness in the body. People with Parkinson’s disease may have trouble walking or balancing or have difficulties with mental abilities. These symptoms are similar to NPH., Alzheimer’s diseaseAlzheimer’s disease is a brain disorder that damages a person’s brain function over time. People with Alzheimer’s disease have trouble with thinking, which is one of the most common symptoms of NPH., or normal aging.
The most common symptoms are problems with walking (gait disturbance), trouble with thinking or dementiaDementia is a broad term for brain disorders that affect a person’s memory and ability to think. The symptoms can be severe enough that it impacts daily living. Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia. (cognitive impairment), and difficulty controlling the bladder (incontinence). These symptoms can greatly impact daily living. Thankfully, NPH is treatable.
If you or a loved one are experiencing these symptoms, it could be NPH. Consider talking to your doctor about a possible diagnosis and the STRIDE clinical trial.
The eShunt System is a new, investigational device for the treatment of NPH. The procedure to implant the shuntA shunt is a hollow tube that is placed in the brain during surgery to help drain excess cerebrospinal fluid. Shunts are commonly used to treat normal pressure hydrocephalus. is minimally invasive, meaning it can be done with only a small incision in the leg.
Currently, NPH is treated with traditional shunts, including the ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt. Traditional shunts come with certain challenges, including increased risk of infection, shunt failure, and other complications that can lead to multiple follow-up visits and more surgeries.
The US Food and Drug Administration has granted the eShunt System a Breakthrough Device Designation. This program recognizes certain medical devices that may provide more effective treatment for serious conditions.
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The STRIDE clinical trial is studying the safety and effectiveness of the eShunt System compared to the VP shunt in people with NPH. The goal of this trial is to see if NPH symptoms, such as problems with walking, improve in people treated with the eShunt System.
You or your loved one may be eligible for the STRIDE clinical trial if you are 60 years of age or older and are experiencing 2 or more of the most common NPH symptoms. A few screening tests must also be done to make sure this trial is right for you.
Choosing to be part of a clinical trial is an important decision to be made by you and your loved ones after learning about the benefits and risks. Thank you for considering the STRIDE clinical trial.