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CRx valves: progressive flow

The CRx Valve mechanism is designed to provide progressive flow in shunting of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the ventricles of the brain.

Theory of operations:

The valve mechanism consists of a medical grade silastic dome with two crossed slits. This design incorporates an inherent resistance to the tendency of most shunts to overdrain due to the hydrostatic column which is created when a shunted patient stands.

This differential pressure mechanism found in the CRx valve was designed by John Holter D. Sc. to reduce overdrainage – compared to a VP shunt made of tubing alone used so far – when shunting cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the ventricles of the brain to the peritoneal cavity. The valve mechanism is housed in a polysulfone protective assembly.

The device does not contain any metal parts, thus eliminating artifact risk during MRI exams.

CRx valve mechanism

Based on this same mechanism, different valves are made available:

CRx valves comprise two cross-slit mechanisms in series. The mechanisms are separated by a silicone reservoir which provides a pumping chamber and is self-sealing when penetrated by a 25 Gauge or smaller Huber-point needle or equivalent non-coring needle.

CRx valves are available in Very Low, Low, Medium, Med-Hi and High Pressures allowing its implantation on children and adult patients.

CRx valve

The Single Valve consists of a single valve mechanism placed in the polysulfone housing, surrounded by a thin silicon sheath.

Single valves are available in kits, in very low, medium and high pressure.

Single valve kit

The CRx Universal Shunt consists of one silicone elastomer CRx slit valve positioned in a polysulfone housing, which is enclosed in a cylindrical silicone elastomer pumping chamber with pre-attached ventricular catheter and a 120 cm distal catheter.

The shunt is available in Low, Medium and High pressures.

CRx Universal Shunt