ventriculoatrial shunt
Also written as: VA shunt — Ventriculoatrial shunt
A cerebrospinal fluid diversion system that drains from the brain ventricles to the right atrium of the heart.
Full Definition
A ventriculoatrial (VA) shunt is a cerebrospinal fluid diversion system used to treat hydrocephalus when ventriculoperitoneal shunting is not feasible or has failed. The system consists of a ventricular catheter, valve mechanism, and distal catheter that terminates in the right atrium via the internal jugular or subclavian vein. VA shunts are typically reserved for cases where peritoneal drainage is contraindicated due to infection, adhesions, or multiple previous abdominal surgeries. While effective for CSF diversion, VA shunts carry unique complications including cardiac arrhythmias, thromboembolism, and shunt nephritis. Regular cardiac monitoring and assessment of renal function are essential in patients with VA shunts.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as VA shunt. Distinguish from VP shunt in documentation.
In Context
- "A ventriculoatrial shunt was placed due to multiple failed VP shunt revisions." — Operative report
- "The VA shunt demonstrated excellent CSF drainage with normalized ventricular size." — Follow-up imaging report