A VP shunt or a ventriculoperitoneal shunt is a device used to prevent the pressure inside the brain due to fluid accumulation explains the top neurosurgeon in Hyderabad from KIMS Hospitals. The shunt is used to treat the condition called hydrocephalus. The cerebrospinal fluid acts as a cushion to the brain and the same is stored in the brain ventricles. Sometimes it exceeds the normal flow and exerts pressure in the brain tissues and damages the brain. Hence, the VP shunt is used in one of the brain ventricles to divert the fluid away from the brain so that the normal pace is restored.
Causes :
People of any age from babies to older generations are susceptible to hydrocephalus. KIMS, one of the Best neuro centers in Hyderabad enlists the reasons behind the accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). They include :
- Overproduction of CSF
- Blood vessels fail to absorb the CSF
- Blocks also prevent the flow of CSF in the brain
Symptoms :
Blocks, cysts, tumors or an inflammation can cause hydrocephalus. The symptoms that promote hydrocephalus include :
- Seizures
- Poor appetite
- Memory loss
- Large head size
- Impaired vision
- Aggression
Diagnosis :
KIMS - The Best neuro specialised hospital in Hyderabad suggests on imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT and MRI scans. They give clarity over the tissues and cavities present in the brain. If there is more than adequate presence of fluid inside the brain cavity then further treatment has to be given.
Shunt Procedure :
You will be put on anaesthesia. The entire procedure may take about 90 minutes. There won’t be any pain during the procedure as you will be under anaesthesia. There will be certain restriction with regards to your food and fluid intake. Your physician or the surgical team will guide you through those details.
A tiny incision is made behind the ear and a small hole is drilled in your skull. One of the Catheters is then inserted into the brain through this opening and thread. The other catheter goes behind the ear and is under the skin. These catheters go up to your chest and abdomen. A tiny pump is attached to the catheter that’s placed behind the ear. This pump activates by itself when there is pressure inside the brain. It can also be programmed to work when the CSF crosses the normal levels.
Recovery :
Recovery time may take up to a week, in few other cases just three to four days after the shunt is placed inside the brain. During your hospital stay your heart rate and blood pressure will be monitored at regular intervals. You will also be given antibiotics.
The shunt may last for 7-8 years for adults. For infants it’s just two years. There are certain complications that come along with shunts. They can cause infections, over-draining or under-draining of CSF. These complications sometimes lead to the death of ventricles in severe cases while in others the hydrocephalus may recur.
Why KIMS Hospitals?
KIMS Hospitals is the best place for the treatment for Hydrocephalus as the procedure is very carefully conducted taking prior precautions. The shunts used too are very advanced that lasts for the expected number of years without any complications.