A nonradiographic system for assessing pressure for the Codman-Hakim Programmable Valve.

BACKGROUND: The Codman-Hakim Programmable Valve is widely used in shunting hydrocephalus and other conditions.

OBJECT: To establish an accurate valve verification system for the Codman-Hakim programmable valve that does not require radiographic exposure.

METHODS: Prospective clinical trial tested a new valve verification system at 9 research sites.

RESULTS: The Valve Programming and Verification System allowed us to establish the valve setting in 62% of subjects with a programmable valve.

CONCLUSION: The Valve Programming and Verification System avoids radiation exposure, is cost-effective, and time efficient for the patient and provider. In approximately one third of subjects, those in whom "adjustment complete" is not achieved, cranial radiographs are still needed.