ventriculoperitoneal shunt
Pronunciation: ven-TRIK-u-lo-pair-ih-toh-NEE-al
Surgically implanted device that drains excess cerebrospinal fluid from brain ventricles to the peritoneal cavity to treat hydrocephalus.
Full Definition
A medical device consisting of a ventricular catheter, valve system, and peritoneal catheter used to treat hydrocephalus by diverting excess cerebrospinal fluid from the brain ventricles to the peritoneal cavity where it can be absorbed. The system includes a programmable or fixed-pressure valve that regulates CSF flow. Radiologic evaluation includes assessment of catheter positioning, valve function, and complications such as catheter disconnection, obstruction, or migration. Shunt malfunction is a common pediatric neurosurgical emergency, and imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosis through shunt series radiographs, CT, and nuclear medicine shunt studies.
Usage
Usage note: VP shunt is the common abbreviation; distinguish from VA (ventriculoatrial) shunts which drain to the heart.
In Context
- "Shunt series radiographs showed intact ventriculoperitoneal shunt tubing with appropriate valve positioning." — Pediatric neurosurgery follow-up
- "The patient's worsening hydrocephalus suggested ventriculoperitoneal shunt malfunction requiring urgent evaluation." — Emergency pediatric imaging