Umbilical cerebrospinal fluid fistula following ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement: a case report and literature review.

Umbilical cerebrospinal fluid fistula is a rare complication associated with ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt. A 5-year-old girl with a history of myelomeningocele repair and VP shunt placement had persistent umbilical discharge for 2 years. Despite multiple medical consultations, the underlying cause remained undiagnosed. Investigations confirmed cerebrospinal fluid leakage, and an initial shunt revision was unsuccessful. Surgical exploration revealed a fistulous tract connecting the peritoneal cavity to the umbilicus, which was excised. The patient recovered without complications. This case underscores the importance of early recognition and appropriate surgical management of VP shunt-related complications.