title: The history of mathematical modeling in hydrocephalus.
abstract: The mathematical modeling of hydrocephalus is a relatively young field. The discipline evolved from Hakim's initial description of the brain as a water-filled sponge. Nagashima and colleagues subsequently translated this description into a computer-driven model by defining five important system rules. A number of researchers have since criticized and refined the method, providing additional system constraints or alternative approaches. Such efforts have led to an increased understanding of ventricular shape change and the development of periventricular lucency on imaging studies. However, severe limitations exist, precluding the use of the mathematical model to influence the operative decisions of practicing surgeons. In this paper, the authors explore the history, limitations, and future of the mathematical model of hydrocephalus.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota 55905, USA. michelle@mayo.edu <michelle@mayo.edu>
authors.forename: Michelle J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Clarke
authors.forename: Fredric B
authors.initials: FB
authors.lastname: Meyer
mesh_terms: D002552:Cerebral Ventricles / Q000503:physiopathology; D045604:Extracellular Fluid / Q000378:metabolism; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D006849:Hydrocephalus / Q000134:cerebrospinal fluid / Q000503:physiopathology*; D008959:Models, Neurological; D009462:Neurology / Q000266:history*; D009626:Terminology as Topic