Complications of Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Surgery

Abstract

Hydrocephalus is one of the commonest neurosurgical pathologies encountered by neurosurgeons in clinical practice. Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) remains the most popular surgical treatment option for hydrocephalus. Complications do occur following VPS and are of a wide spectrum and can involve any anatomical area along the path of ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Complications could affect any age group, but children are more prone to these unwanted events. Complications of ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery were categorised based on the anatomical segment of the body involved into cranial, cervico-thoracic, and abdominal. Generally, shunt obstruction is the commonest complication and could affect any part of the shunt catheter. Detailed information on specific complications was outlined, including treatment strategies. Careful patient and shunt selection and surgical technique will help in preventing shunt complications and improving the health and well-being of hydrocephalic patients.