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Outcomes of VP Shunt

What is a VP Shunt, and how does it work?

A VP Shunt, also known as a ventriculoperitoneal shunt, is a surgical procedure used to treat hydrocephalus. It is a condition where there is an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain, leading to increased pressure. The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes about 90 minutes. The surgeon drains the excess fluid in the brain by creating a hole in the skull and using a thin, flexible tube (catheter). Tiny pumps may be attached to the cavity to drain the fluid. The pumps can be regulated to extract extra fluid as it increases above a certain range, which is then dumped in the peritoneal cavity.

What medical conditions can be treated through VP Shunt?

The VP shunt procedure is exclusively used in cases of hydrocephalus. There are two types of Hydrocephalus; Congenital Hydrocephalus, which is present at birth due to abnormal brain development, and Acquired Hydrocephalus, which is caused by infections, tumors, or head injuries leading to CSF buildup.

What is the recovery process after a VP Shunt?

The recovery after a VP shunt procedure may take three to four days. Most patients are discharged from the hospital within seven days after the procedure. During the hospital stay, blood pressure, the proper working of the shunt, and the heart rate of the patient are consistently monitored. The doctor prescribes preventative antibiotics to avoid any infections. Patients may experience mild discomfort and headaches during the recovery period. Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the shunt's function and ensure that the hydrocephalus is well-controlled. In some cases, physical therapy may be required to help with motor and developmental issues associated with the condition.