Brain scan imaging

Lumboperitoneal Shunt

In some patients who have benefited with cerebrospinal fluid drainage via a lumbar drain to treat their condition (for example, CSF leakage or idiopathic intracranial hypertension–IIH), a lumboperitoneal shunt may be helpful.

Lumboperioneal shunt

This procedure connects a tube from the CSF fluid space in the lumbar spine to the abdomen, usually with a fixed valve to prevent overdrainage. We typically use a valve that adjust for patient position (sitting versus standing). The abdominal portion of the catheter is placed laparoscopically with the assistance of a general surgeon, ensuring correct placement of the catheter and minimizing the risk of abdominal organ injury.

This device can have some complications during and after placement. These include catheter misplacement, catheter dislodgement, valve obstruction, shunt infection, overdrainage, possible revision surgery or removal surgery and intracranial bleeding (acute or delayed). These shunts are less durable than VP shunts and can require more frequent revision operations.

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Last updated: April 6, 2020