ventriculoperitoneal shunt
Also written as: VP shunt — ventriculoperitoneal shunt
Surgical device that drains excess cerebrospinal fluid from brain ventricles to the peritoneal cavity.
Full Definition
A ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is a medical device used to treat hydrocephalus by diverting excess cerebrospinal fluid from the brain's ventricular system to the peritoneal cavity for absorption. The system consists of a ventricular catheter, a valve mechanism to regulate flow, and a distal catheter that terminates in the abdomen. VP shunts are the most common type of CSF diversion procedure and require regular monitoring for complications such as obstruction, infection, or malfunction.
Usage
Usage note: Can be abbreviated as VP shunt in subsequent references within the same document.
In Context
- "The ventriculoperitoneal shunt appears intact with no evidence of disconnection." — Shunt series radiology report
- "Consider neurosurgical consultation for possible ventriculoperitoneal shunt malfunction." — Emergency department note