Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting Procedures
Shunting procedures are done to drain out excess cerebrospinal fluid buildup in the brain. This can be caused by a condition known as hydrocephalus. This surgical procedure is a long-term solution that redirects the flow of cerebrospinal fluid from the brain to another location within the body, where it may be reabsorbed.
Hydrocephalus may be caused by many factors such as trauma, hemorrhage, tumors, or infections. A ventriculostomy catheter may be used for short-term relief from the pressure caused by excess cerebrospinal fluid, and this may then be converted to a more long-term solution. While there are many methods of shunting, the most common is known as a ventriculoperitoneal shunt.
This procedure involves inserting a catheter inside the brain’s ventricles, which is then attached to a valve that controls the flow of cerebrospinal fluid. The valve is then connected to a second catheter, which redirects the fluid into the abdomen where it is absorbed.
How the Shunting Procedures are Performed
Placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt is considered formal brain surgery, and is performed in the operating room under general anesthesia. While there are several locations that the device may be placed, one of the most common is behind the ear. An incision will be made in the scalp, and a small burr hole is made in the skull. Another small incision is made on the abdomen, at one of several appropriate locations for insertion of an abdominal catheter. Many surgeons use a laparoscopic technique for insertion of the abdominal catheter. The entire procedure is completed in approximately an hour and a half.
This valve is designed to open when excess cerebrospinal fluid buildup causes pressure around the brain. When it is open, it drains the extra fluid from the brain into the abdomen, in order to decrease the pressure in the brain. The shunt is left in place, making it a permanent solution to the problems caused by hydrocephalus.
Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting Procedures in Orange County, San Bernardino, Riverside and Los Angeles County:
- Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting Procedures in and near Anaheim
- Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting Procedures in and near Colton
- Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting Procedures in and near Corona
- Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting Procedures in and near Garden Grove
- Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting Procedures in and near Irwindale
- Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting Procedures in and near La Mirada
- Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting Procedures in and near Long Beach
- Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting Procedures in and near Los Angeles
- Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting Procedures in and near Ontario
- Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting Procedures in and near Perris
- Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting Procedures in and near Temecula
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