What kind of device is a VP shunt?
A ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is a thin plastic tube that helps drain extra cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the brain. CSF is the saltwater that surrounds and cushions the brain and spinal cord.
What is the difference between LP and VP shunt?
The presented results suggest that LP shunts reduce the spinal CSF volume, while VP shunts keep the cranial and spinal CSF volume in the physiological range.
How long do VP shunts last?
Shunting is successful in reducing pressure in the brain in most people. VP shunts are likely to require replacement after several years, especially in small children. The average lifespan of an infant’s shunt is two years. Adults and children over the age of 2 may not need a shunt replacement for eight or more years.
What is a shunt 12v?
A shunt is an electrical device that generates a low-resistance path for an electrical current. This enables the current to flow to an alternative point in the circuit. Shunts may also be referred to as ammeter shunts or current shunt resistors.
Can you scuba dive with a VP shunt?
Conclusions: Patients with CSF shunts should undergo careful evaluation including assessment of their cognitive and physical needs as well as co-morbidities. Having a CSF shunt in situ is not in itself a contraindication to SCUBA diving.
What is a VP shunt catheter?
Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts. This type of shunt diverts CSF from the ventricles of the brain into the peritoneal cavity, the space in the abdomen where the digestive organs are located. The tip of the distal catheter rests in this cavity near the loops of the intestine and bowel but not inside them.
What are the different types of shunt systems?
The most common shunt systems are: 1 Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts. This type of shunt diverts CSF from the ventricles of the brain into the peritoneal cavity, the space in the abdomen where the digestive organs are located. 2 Ventriculoatrial (VA) shunts. 3 Ventriculopleural (VPL) shunts. 4 Lumboperitoneal (LP) shunts.
How does a ventriculoperitoneal shunt work for hydrocephalus?
A ventriculoperitoneal shunt is an effective way to treat the symptoms of hydrocephalus. When fitted, a ventriculoperitoneal shunt successfully drains CSF and reduces brain pressure for most people. Sometimes a ventriculoperitoneal shunt will stop working and need replacing.
What equipment is needed to perform a VP shunt?
A VP shunt is placed in the operating room under general anesthesia by a neurosurgeon. Equipment needed to perform the procedure includes: Shunt system (ventricular catheter, peritoneal catheter, and valve)