VP Shunt (Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt)

A ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is a device surgically placed to drain excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the brain's ventricles to the abdominal cavity. It treats hydrocephalus and can be used for IIH.

When It's Used

• Hydrocephalus
• IIH not controlled with medication
• Failed or not candidate for other treatments
• Need to treat headaches and papilledema together

How It Works

• Catheter in brain ventricle
• Connected to valve under skin
• Tubing runs under skin to abdomen
• Valve regulates flow
• CSF absorbed in abdominal cavity

The Procedure

Before Surgery

• Imaging of brain
• General health evaluation
• Discuss shunt type and pressure settings

During Surgery

• General anesthesia
• Small incisions in head and abdomen
• Tubing threaded under skin
• Takes 1-2 hours

After Surgery

• Hospital stay 1-3 days
• Activity restrictions initially
• Wound care
• MRI often needed before discharge

Living with a Shunt

• Regular follow-up appointments
• Learn signs of malfunction
• Activity usually not restricted long-term
• May need pressure adjustments
• MRI-compatible in most modern shunts

Complications

Shunt Malfunction

• Blockage, disconnection
• May need revision surgery

Infection

• Usually within first 6 months
• May need shunt replacement

Over-Drainage

• Low pressure headaches
• Valve adjustment may help

Other

• Abdominal complications
• Slit ventricle syndrome

Success for IIH

• Generally good for headaches
• Protects vision
• About 30-50% need revision within years
• Alternative: lumboperitoneal shunt