Conversion of a lumboperitoneal shunt to a lumboatrial shunt through femoral catheterization: technical note.

A new technique for the diversion of the peritoneal end of a lumboperitoneal shunt into the right atrium through femoral vein catheterization is presented. As an alternative to a ventriculoatrial shunt, this is a promising technique for the treatment of patients with communicating hydrocephalus when the peritoneal cavity is not suitable for placing the distal end of the shunt.