Ventriculoperitoneal shunt

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Craniotomy for cerebral shunt

Ventricles of the brain

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt - series

Shunt - ventriculoperitoneal; VP shunt

The outcome from the actual surgery is good. Hydrocephalus is often associated with other conditions such as spina bifida, brain tumor, meningitis, encephalitis or hemorrhage. These conditions would influence the patient's prognosis. The degree of hydrocephalus prior to surgery will also affect the outcome.

Support groups for families of children with hydrocephalus or spina bifida are available in most areas.

The patient's vital signs and neurological status are closely monitored. Medication is given for pain. Intravenous fluids and antibiotics are given. The patient is monitored closely to ensure that the shunt is functioning properly.

Two to three days of bedrest in the hospital are usually required and then the patient may go home. Often, imaging studies such as CT scans are done after the surgery to confirm good positioning of the shunt and resolution of the hydrocephalus.

Review Date: 06/10/2005
Reviewed By: Joseph P. Hart, MD, Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.