Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt
Surgical device that drains excess cerebrospinal fluid from brain ventricles to the abdominal cavity.
Full Definition
A ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is a medical device used to treat hydrocephalus by diverting cerebrospinal fluid from the brain's ventricles to the peritoneal cavity where it can be absorbed. The system consists of a ventricular catheter, a valve mechanism to regulate flow, and a peritoneal catheter. VP shunts are commonly placed in pediatric patients with congenital hydrocephalus, often associated with conditions like myelomeningocele or intraventricular hemorrhage in premature infants.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as VP shunt; requires lifelong monitoring for complications.
In Context
- "The VP shunt was revised due to proximal catheter obstruction causing recurrent hydrocephalus." — Neurosurgical revision note
- "Programmable VP shunt placement successfully controlled the patient's hydrocephalus with improved head growth parameters." — Post-operative follow-up
Also known as
VP Shunt
Don't confuse with
Ventriculoatrial Shunt
External Ventricular Drain
Ommaya Reservoir