Ventriculoperitneal (VP) Shunt for Hydrocephalus

A VP shunt is a medical device that is inserted into an area of the brain called a ventricle where the fluid is located. This device diverts excess fluid and helps to create a normal flow of CSF. Some shunts have a programmable valve to regulate the flow.

The patient will be given a general anaesthetic for this procedure. The area behind your ear will be shaved clean of hair and will be sterilised before a small incision is made. The surgeon will then drill a small hole in the skull. A catheter is then inserted into the brain through this hole. Another catheter is inserted just under the skin behind your ear and travels down past your chest into your abdomen. A valve is connected to the catheter coming from the brain.

Patients usually stay in hospital for 2 days. No special care is needed on discharge and depends on the underlying pathology as to what caused the obstruction of flow. Some patients might need to go to a step down facilty for a while.