ventriculoperitoneal shunt
Also written as: VP shunt — ventriculoperitoneal shunt
Surgical device that drains excess cerebrospinal fluid from brain ventricles to the abdominal cavity.
Full Definition
A neurosurgical device consisting of a catheter system that diverts excess cerebrospinal fluid from the brain's ventricles to the peritoneal cavity, where it can be absorbed. VP shunts are commonly used to treat hydrocephalus in pediatric patients, featuring a proximal catheter placed in the lateral ventricle, a valve mechanism to regulate flow and pressure, and a distal catheter that terminates in the peritoneal space. Shunt complications include infection, mechanical failure, overdrainage, or obstruction, requiring careful long-term monitoring and potential revisions.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as VP shunt. Note correct spelling of 'ventriculoperitoneal' as one word.
In Context
- "The infant required ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement for treatment of progressive hydrocephalus." — Neurosurgical consultation
- "Shunt series radiographs were obtained to evaluate ventriculoperitoneal shunt integrity." — Radiology imaging order