THE TREATMENT

From our discussion with a doctor who has had prior experience treating this type of cases, Yusra will require the following:

1. Neurological assessment
   Yusra needs to be assessed by a specialist with regards to his current neurological and developmental status i.e. how severe his current disability is, as well as his likelihood for recovery and potential for future development.
2. CT scan of his brain and possibly an MRI
   These investigations will determine how much brain tissue is left and help in his neurological assessment and his developmental potential.
3. Surgery
   1. Treatment of hydrocephalus
      This is done via insertion of a shunt to drain away the fluid that is accumulating (and being continually produced) in his brain.
   2. Treatment of enlarged skull
      The skull bones enlarge as the hydrocephalic brain is enlarged. Treatment of the hydrocephalus itself will not reduce the size of the already formed skull. Hence there may be a need to reduce the overall size of the skull so that the head is not too heavy. Cranial reduction surgery can be done to reduce this but will need to be done in a specialised craniofacial centre with experience in this type of surgery.
4. Early intervention rehabilitation
   Yusra’s development is probably delayed. He will require some form of early intervention rehabilitation to try to get him back on track or as close to normal as possible.