Hydrocephalus therapy: reduction of shunt occlusions using a peel-away sheath

Clin Neurol Neurosurg. 2003 Sep;105(4):253-5. doi: 10.1016/s0303-8467(03)00041-6.

Abstract

In order to avoid shunt occlusions through particles of brain parenchyma a new procedure was used. Conventionally during ventricle puncture brain tissue may intrude into perforating holes of the ventricular catheter and subsequently shunt dysfunction may occur. By using a peel-away sheath the ventricular catheter can be protected during puncture. The conventional technique (n=90) was compared with the peel-away sheath technique (n=20) in a retrospective analyses in regard to shunt revisions during a 1-year period. Shunt revision was done in 18% (16/90) within 1 year using the conventional technique, respectively, 5% (1/20) using the peel-away sheath technique. Although criteria for statistical significance were not reached these data are worth to be mentioned. A randomised prospective study is initiated and the key features are presented.

MeSH terms

  • Cerebral Ventricles
  • Equipment Design
  • Equipment Failure
  • Humans
  • Hydrocephalus / therapy*
  • Neurosurgical Procedures / instrumentation
  • Neurosurgical Procedures / methods*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt / adverse effects*