Reservoirs
What is a Reservoir?
A reservoir (rez-er-vwar) is a tube used to remove extra fluid from the ventricles in the brain. The child is taken to the Operating Room to have this placed. When the soft spot ("fontanelle") is full, the extra fluid is taken out through the reservoir. You will hear this described as tapping the reservoir.
How Long Will The Reservoir Be In?
Until the taps are not needed or the infant is ready to have a permanent shunt placed. When the CSF returns to its usual color and to its usual (water-like) consistency, a permanent shunt can be put in to drain the extra fluid, if needed.
Contact Us
For additional information on this or any Health Topic, please call the Family Resource Center, 513-636-7606, or your pediatrician.
Patient Education Program 1041 I 8/98
Rev. 7/05; 9/09
