ventriculoperitoneal shunt
Pronunciation: ven-trik-yuh-loh-pair-ih-tuh-NEE-uhl shuhnt
Also written as: VP shunt — ventriculoperitoneal shunt
Surgical device that drains excess cerebrospinal fluid from brain ventricles to the peritoneal cavity to treat hydrocephalus.
Full Definition
A ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is a medical device used to treat hydrocephalus by diverting cerebrospinal fluid from the brain's ventricular system to the peritoneal cavity, where it can be absorbed. The system consists of a ventricular catheter placed in the brain, a valve mechanism to regulate flow and pressure, and a distal catheter tunneled subcutaneously to the abdomen. VP shunts are the most common type of CSF diversion system, though other variants include ventriculoatrial and ventriculopleural shunts. These devices require lifelong monitoring for complications such as infection, obstruction, or overdrainage.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as VP shunt. Distinguish from other shunt types and external drainage systems.
In Context
- "A programmable ventriculoperitoneal shunt was placed to manage the patient's hydrocephalus." — operative report
- "The VP shunt required revision due to catheter obstruction and recurrent symptoms." — neurosurgical follow-up