Sirasa Iambamrung Intern/Mentor GT Advisor: Dr. Edward Ahn Dr. Kiehl

A Preview… Background Information Internship Research Data Collection Final Product Conclusion

Background Information Hydrocephalus: a neurological condition present in one out of every thousand babies Definition: abnormal expansion of cavities (ventricles) within the brain caused by accumulation of cerebrospinal (CSF) fluid Leads to elevation of CSF pressure within the brain Four types: non-communicating, communicating, hydrocephalus ex- vacuo, and normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH).

My Internship Location: Medical Pavilion at Howard County Assignments: Shadow Dr. Ahn Some conditions that patients have: Hydrocephalus Craniosynostosis Plagiocephali Brain Tumor Spinal bifida

Background Information No cure Two forms of surgical treatment: Shunt: Most shunts consist of a valve housing connected to a catheter Endoscopic third ventriculo stomy (ETV): a hole is punctured in the floor of the third ventricle of the brain

Research Question: What is the effect of Hydrocephalus on mathematical disabilities? Hypothesis: Hydrocephalus impairs the mathematical abilities of children with the disorder.

Data Collection Quantitative Data Primary Analysis of Previously recorded data Four research studies: Learning, memory, and executive functions in children with Hydrocephalus Math and Numeracy in Young Adults with Spinal Bifida and Hydrocephalus Evaluation of the Intellectual Skill Problems of Hydrocephalic Children: A Clinical Study Learning Disabilities in a Population-Based Group of Children With Hydrocephalus

Results

Final Product I will be creating a brochure which will include: General overview of hydrocephalus Its effects on mathematical skills (based on my data analysis) and what actions should be taken to help students with hydrocephalus Audience: special education teachers at Mt. Hebron

Conclusion There is a an association between hydrocephalus and learning disabilities. This supports my hypothesis that hydrocephalic children will have difficulty with mathematics. With education being crucial to succeeding in life, hydrocephalic children are at a disadvantage. It is important to find ways to prevent hydrocephalus and optimize treatment, but it is just as important for hydrocephalic students to receive sufficient assistance and help in school.

Reviewing Concepts True or False: There is a permanent, reliable cure for hydrocephalus. True or False: Hydrocephalus is commonly treated in one of two ways, with a shunt or with an ETV. True or False: Some hydrocephalus pediatric patients have memory problems. True or False: After receiving an ETV, a hydrocephalus pediatric patient suffering from memory problems usually improves in memory function.

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Works Cited Fallon, L. Fleming. "Hydrocephalus." The Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine. Ed. Laurie J. Fundukian. 4th ed. Detroit: Gale, Science in Context. Web. 17 Mar "Hydrocephalus Fact Sheet." National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Feb Web. 18 Sept