Procedure Type
SurgicalProcedure Duration
1 Hour 30 MinutesHospital Stay (Days)
5 DaysA Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is a medical procedure designed to treat hydrocephalus, a condition where excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) accumulates in the brain, causing increased pressure. This procedure involves the surgical placement of a shunt system to divert the fluid from the brain’s ventricles to the peritoneal cavity, usually in the abdomen, where the fluid can be absorbed.
VP shunt surgery is most commonly indicated in patients diagnosed with hydrocephalus, whether congenital or acquired. Conditions that may lead to hydrocephalus include brain tumors, infections, trauma, or genetic disorders. The aim of the surgery is to alleviate the pressure caused by the excess CSF, preventing brain damage, and restoring normal fluid balance within the brain and spinal cord.
The VP shunt procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and the surgeon makes small incisions to access the brain and abdominal cavity. A catheter is inserted into the brain’s ventricles, where CSF collects. The catheter is connected to a valve that regulates the fluid flow, which then travels through a tube to the peritoneal cavity. Once the fluid is diverted, it can be absorbed by the body naturally. This surgery usually takes a few hours and is often performed on an outpatient basis with a short hospital stay.
Chief Neurosurgery & CNS Radiosurgery & Co Chief Cyberknife
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & HOD NEURO SURGERY
MBBS, MS - General Surgery, MCh - Neuro Surgery Neurosurgeon,Spine Surgeon (Neuro)
There are different types of VP shunts, including programmable and non-programmable models. Programmable shunts allow the pressure to be adjusted after implantation using an external device. Non-programmable shunts have fixed settings and are typically used in cases where adjustment is not needed. The choice of shunt depends on the patient's condition, age, and overall health, as well as the surgeon's recommendation.
After the surgery, patients are closely monitored to ensure that the shunt is functioning correctly and that there are no complications, such as infection or blockage. In some cases, imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs may be used to verify the position of the shunt and check for any issues. Pain management and anti-inflammatory medications are provided as needed, and patients are advised on how to care for the surgical site.
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