Doctors at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio are trying to save the life of a baby boy born with hydrocephalus, which has caused his head to swell more than twice the normal size, the New York Daily News reported.
The baby, known as “Baby Klaus,” has an excess of fluid on his brain – and his head has swelled more than 130 percent larger than a normal infant’s head.
Dr. David Jimenez, chairman of neurosurgery at the University of Texas Health Science Center, inserted a tube in Baby Klaus’ head after several other doctors refused to touch the newborn. The baby’s head decreased about a foot in two weeks, but Jimenez warned the parents continued progress would be slow.
However, since Baby Klaus has managed to live a year with this condition, Jimenez is hopeful.
Hydrocephalus occurs in 1 out of 500 babies and it can cause brain damage and even lead to death if left untreated.
Baby Klaus may need reconstructive surgery in the future, Jimenez said.
Click here to read more on this story from the New York Daily News.
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