A VP shunt is a device used to divert excess cerebrospinal fluid from the brain to the abdomen, often in hydrocephalus.
The shunt itself is a treatment, not a disease, but people may hear about it when they or their child has hydrocephalus. Warning signs of a shunt problem can include headache, vomiting, fever, irritability, drowsiness, swelling along the shunt track, or return of earlier hydrocephalus symptoms.
Imaging helps when doctors need to check whether the shunt is in the right position, whether the brain ventricles are changing in size, or whether the shunt may be blocked or not working well.
Imaging helps confirm shunt position, assess ventricular size, and look for complications when symptoms suggest malfunction.
Patients with shunts may need monitoring, adjustments, or revision surgery if the device is blocked, infected, or not working properly.
This entry explains the procedure. Before you go, read the longer prep guide or find a centre that performs it.
