What happens during a shunt revision?
The operation usually takes between one and two hours. The area from the head to the abdomen (belly) is scrubbed with a special soap. The surgeon makes incisions (cuts) on the head and abdomen. The shunt is tested to locate the problem.
What happens when a shunt stops working?
A shunt blockage can be very serious as it can lead to an build-up of excess fluid in the brain, which can cause brain damage. This will cause the symptoms of hydrocephalus. Emergency surgery will be needed to replace the malfunctioning shunt.
How long is recovery from shunt surgery?
It is okay for you to lie on the side of your head with the shunt. For 6 weeks, do not do any activity that may cause you to hit your head. You will probably be able to return to work in less than 1 week.
How much does a shunt revision cost?
Shunt Supply Costs
| Cost | Programmable | Fixed |
|---|---|---|
| Index shunt | $3320 (2907–3663) | $1492 (718–1508) |
| Shunt replacement | $3206 (2906–3578) | $1601 (1435–2186) |
| Catheter revision | $158 (81–215) | $372 (129–570) |
| Total cost per patient | $3438 (2938–3876) | $1504 (753–1584) |
Are shunt revisions common?
Shunt complications and revisions are common in hydrocephalic patients treated with a ventriculo-atrial or a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt. The reported revision rate differs very much but the rate of revision is close to 50% in many papers.
What type of shunts are there?
The most common shunt systems are:
- 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.
- Ventriculoatrial (VA) shunts.
- Ventriculopleural (VPL) shunts.
- Lumboperitoneal (LP) shunts.
How do I know if my shunt is malfunctioning?
Shunt Malfunction Signs
- Headaches.
- Vomiting.
- Lethargy (sleepiness)
- Irritability.
- Swelling or redness along the shunt tract.
- Decreased school performance.
- Periods of confusion.
- Seizures.
