Ventriculoperitoneal shunts are located in the brain where they drain off excess fluid placing pressure on the brain. Hydrocephalus symptoms may improve quickly or over an extended timeframe. For those with symptoms due to typical hydrocephalus, the shunt is likely to help. According to the Johns Hopkins Institute, 10% of patients improve rapidly but have a less effective long-term response.
Shunts can last up to six years but will eventually need to be replaced. Dr. Lewis performs ventriculoperitoneal shunt replacement surgery for patients that need a new one.
This operation relieves pressure on the brain due to an overabundance of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), called hydrocephalus. Whether installing a new shunt or performing ventriculoperitoneal shunt replacement, the surgery takes place under general anesthesia.
Typically, it lasts for 1 1/2 hours. A catheter is installed from the cavities of the head to the abdomen where the excess fluid drains.
Here are the steps involved in the procedure:
As with any other device, ventriculoperitoneal shunts require periodic replacements. Besides wear and tear, there are other conditions under which you will need a new shunt installed. These reasons include the following:
It’s hard to know how long your shunt will last. However, many shunts have to be replaced or corrected after about six years.
When you come to the Jackson Neurosurgery Clinic, Dr. Lewis will provide a consultation on your case and discuss possible treatment plans to resolve your ventriculoperitoneal shunt replacement or repair.
Contact the Jackson Neurosurgery Clinic for more information regarding ventriculoperitoneal shunt replacement and whether it can help you. Call (601) 366-1011 today for the soonest available appointment. We’ll find a solution that works for you.