Final answer:
An intraventricular catheter is placed in the ventricles of the brain to treat hydrocephalus by draining the excess cerebrospinal fluid to the abdominal cavity.
Step-by-step explanation:
An intraventricular catheter is placed in the ventricles of the brain to treat hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by the buildup of excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. The catheter allows for the drainage of the excess CSF from the ventricles to the abdominal cavity, where it can be reabsorbed by the bloodstream. This helps to relieve the pressure on the brain and treat the symptoms associated with hydrocephalus.