Ventriculoperitoneal shunt for hydrocephalus
Ventriculoperitoneal shunting is an operation to eliminate hydrocephalus. The essence of the operation is to create an outflow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the dilated ventricles of the brain into the abdominal cavity using a special CSF shunting system (CSFS).
The LHS consists of three components:
- ventricular catheter – it is inserted into the cavity of the dilated lateral ventricle,
- the system valve is a special device that regulates the flow of cerebrospinal fluid under a certain pressure so that the pressure in the ventricles of the brain remains within normal limits,
- and an abdominal catheter — inserted into the abdominal cavity, where the cerebrospinal fluid is absorbed.
The main function of the valve
There are more than 200 types of LVH from different manufacturers, with various valve designs. The main function of the valve is to open and discharge CSF from the ventricles of the brain into the abdominal cavity up to a certain pressure, and then close.
When the cerebrospinal fluid pressure increases, the valve opens again, thus maintaining normal cerebrospinal fluid pressure in the ventricles of the brain.
Operational process
The operation is performed under general anesthesia. Through a small incision on the head, a hole is made in the skull at a special point, through which a ventricular catheter is inserted into the ventricle of the brain. The system valve is connected to it.
Then, an abdominal catheter is attached to the valve, which is passed under the skin to the abdomen with a special instrument and inserted into the abdominal cavity.
Our department uses the most modern CSF shunt systems with ruby valves and antibacterial coating, which significantly reduces the risk of infection, ensuring high-quality operation of the system.
We also use anti-siphon devices that connect to the valve, which prevent excessive discharge of CSF when changing body position.
The most effective CSF shunt systems we use are LVSs with programmed valves, which allow you to adjust the pressure in the valve remotely.
