A bizarre reentry phenomenon of distal shunt tip causing shunt malfunction

Childs Nerv Syst. 2010 Jul;26(7):963-5. doi: 10.1007/s00381-009-1073-6. Epub 2010 Jan 14.

Abstract

Introduction: We report a bizarre presentation of a distal shunt malfunction in a 5-year-old child with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt.

Discussion: The plain radiographs done as a workup for possible shunt malfunction demonstrated the distal shunt tip reentering the abdominal wall from inside the peritoneal cavity. We discuss the possible explanation for the phenomenon.

Conclusion: We conclude that the case is just another reminder of the fact that shunt malfunctions can have multiple presentations; hence, a regular follow-up with appropriate imaging and high index of suspicion is mandatory in preventing morbidities.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Cavity / diagnostic imaging
  • Child
  • Device Removal
  • Equipment Failure
  • Humans
  • Laparoscopy
  • Male
  • Neurosurgical Procedures
  • Peritoneal Cavity / diagnostic imaging
  • Reoperation
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt / adverse effects*