Ventriculoperitoneal shunting

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Craniotomy for cerebral shunt

Ventricles of the brain

Ventriculoperitoneal shunting is surgery to relieve increased pressure inside the skull due to excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) on the brain (hydrocephalus).

This article primarily discusses shunt placement in children.

See also: Intracranial pressure

Shunt - ventriculoperitoneal; VP shunt; Shunt revision

This procedure is done in the operating room under general anesthesia. It takes about 1 1/2 hours.

The child's hair behind the ear is shaved off. A surgical cut in the shape of a horseshoe (U-shape) is made behind the ear. Another small surgical cut is made in the child's belly.

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A small hole is drilled in the skull. A small thin tube called a catheter is passed into a ventricle of the brain.

Another catheter is placed under the skin behind the ear and moved down the neck and chest, and usually into the abdominal (peritoneal) cavity. Sometimes, it goes to the chest area. The doctor may make a small cut in the neck to help position the catheter.

A valve (fluid pump) is placed underneath the skin behind the ear. The valve is attached to both catheters. When extra pressure builds up around the brain, the valve opens, and excess fluid drains out of it into the belly or chest area. This helps decrease intracranial pressure.

The valves in newer shunts can be programmed to drain more or less fluid from the brain.

In hydrocephalus, there is a buildup of fluid of the brain and spinal cord (cerebrospinal fluid or CSF). This buildup of fluid causes higher than normal pressure on the brain. Too much pressure, or pressure that is present too long, will damage the brain tissue.

A shunt helps to drain the excess fluid and relieve the pressure in the brain. A shunt should be placed as soon as hydrocephalus is diagnosed.

If the procedure is not an emergency (planned surgery):

• Tell your doctor or nurse what drugs, supplements, vitamins, or herbs your child takes.
• Give any drugs the doctor told you to give your child. It is okay if they take them with a small sip of water.
• The doctor or nurse will tell you when to arrive at the hospital.