# Clinical Approach and Successful Intervention of Congenital Hydrocephalus in Neonatal Calf

## TL;DR

A newborn calf with a brain fluid disorder was successfully treated with surgery, leading to full recovery.

## Contribution

This case report demonstrates successful surgical management of congenital hydrocephalus in a neonatal calf.

## Key findings

- Surgical aspiration of cerebrospinal fluid and excision improved neurological function.
- The calf showed normal growth and behavior 12 days post-surgery.
- Antibiotics and corticosteroids aided post-operative recovery.

## Abstract

Congenital hydrocephalus is a potentially fatal neurological anomaly in calves characterized by excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid that leads to cranial deformities and neurological deficits. This report describes the successful surgical management of a day‐old crossbred female calf presenting with a dome‐shaped cranial vault, poor suckling reflex and uncoordinated gait. Diagnosis of congenital hydrocephalus was confirmed by clinical examination. Surgical intervention involved gradual aspiration of cerebrospinal fluid using a syringe, followed by excision of the enlarged area at the level of a horizontal mattress suture placed at the base of the swelling. Post‐operative care included antibiotics, corticosteroids and fluid therapy. Progressive neurological improvement was noted within 72 h, and by 12 days post‐surgery, the calf exhibited normal growth, behaviour and no signs of neurological dysfunction. This report represents a successful outcome following surgical management of congenital hydrocephalus in a neonatal calf.

A neonatal calf with congenital hydrocephalus, characterized by a dome‐shaped cranial vault, was treated with gradual drainage of cerebrospinal fluid and a horizontal mattress suture. The calf exhibited neurological improvement following surgery. At 12‐day follow‐up, normal behaviour and growth were observed with no neurological deficits.