Shunt Complications - Staying Out of Trouble.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the common problems in shunt surgery and measures to avoid them. Management of hydrocephalus takes up as much as 50% of a pediatric ' 'neurosurgeon's time, and these are notoriously prone to complications. In this article, the author analysis his series of ventriculoperitoneal shunts and discusses his technique, nuances and avoidance of shunt complications.

METHODS AND MATERIALS: The author will review common issues related to hydrocephalus shunt management with a review of 549 procedures and associated complications.

RESULTS

Key features and basic principles of complication avoidance in shunt surgery is provided. The analysis looks into the complications and ways to avoid them based on the author's experience.

CONCLUSIONS

Specific measures may be adopted to minimize or avoid these complications. These will be discussed based on the author's series and experiences.