Hello I was diagnosed with a sudo tumor cerebra, Hydrocephalus & a Chiari Malformation at the age of 12. They placed a V.P. shunt in then & for years I didn't have to worry about to much pressure on my brain. Even my headaches were a little less. Fast forward to now. I have been dealing with pain on a whole other level. The shunt is not a soft silicon like when it was placed, now it's more like a metal rod. I've seen 4 different Neurosurgeons & NONE will take it out. I'm in the hospital right now from my second fluid build up where my shunt is broken in my abdomen. I was sadly told today I will never be pain free or be able to be totally off pain meds. All 3 of my children were blessed to not be born with this medical condition but one of my nieces daughters was diagnosed with a Chiari Malf. If you have any questions please fill free to contact me on here.