Apparatus and method for volumetric removal of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the brain of patients suffering from hydrocephalus. The apparatus comprises a drainage conduit, which interconnects the cerebral ventricle system to a body cavity and an open and close pinch flow restrictor external to the drainage conduit to control flow. The flow restrictor has a controller that is remotely programmable. Also, the method provides for drainage of the CSF through the conduit by opening and closing the pinch flow restrictor for programmed durations. The actual opening and closing of the flow restrictor to actuate the drainage is determined by patient response to excessive or inadequate CSF diversion.