Neurology - External Ventricular Drain (EVD)

What is an EVD?

An external ventricular drain (EVD) is a temporary drain that drains cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF) from the fluid spaces in the centre of the brain into a drainage bag.

CSF is fluid that surrounds the brain and fills the fluid spaces (ventricles) inside the brain as well as carrying nutrients and waste products to and from the brain.

The EVD consists of a thin silicon tube, which is placed in one of the fluid spaces and connected to an external drainage system.

The procedure involves your head being shaven over the area the drain will be inserted and a small single hole in the skull to allow the drain to pass through the brain into the fluid space.
 

This leaflet is intended for general information only. For individual information please contact your doctor or nurse.

What will happen before the procedure?

Before you go to theatre, the surgeon will discuss the procedure with you and you will sign a consent form if you are well enough.

What are your risks?

The risks will be discussed with you during the consent process.

After the EVD has been inserted

You will be observed closely and the drain will be set at a height specified by the surgeon.

The fluid flows out into the collection chamber and is monitored by the nursing staff. The amount of drainage is measured and recorded.

You will have a dressing on your head where the drain enters the skin.

What do you need to do?

• Do not touch the drain
• Ensure your hands and nails are kept clean in case you need to touch the drain, this will help minimise infection
• If your dressing comes off or is loose, please make a nurse aware
• The drain is set at a specific height. If you need to move you must ensure that the nurse comes and clamps the drain whilst you move, this is to prevent too much or too little fluid from draining
• Ensure that any staff touching your drain wear gloves and an apron
• If a member of staff attempts to touch your drain without wearing gloves or an apron, please challenge them

Removing the EVD

The length of time an EVD is in varies from person to person, depending on the reason for the EVD.

You will have to stay in hospital until the drain is removed. There may be a stitch where the drain has been removed. The stitch will need to be removed 5 days later and this will done on the ward or at your GP surgery.

Back at home

By the time you are home, there should be no problem with the EVD site.

If you do have any concerns, please contact the last ward you were on, or your consultants secretary.

DVLA

Following insertion of an EVD you will be unable to drive for a minimum of 6 months.

You should notify the DVLA if you have had an EVD inserted. You can find out more information by speaking to your GP or at
http://www.gov.uk/dvla-medical-enquiries

Contact details

Ward B7 - 0161 206 4571

Ward B8 - 0161 206 1290

Ward H7 - 0161 206 5679

Critical Care - 0161 206 5045