What is shunt placement?

Also known as: shunt surgery, ventriculoperitoneal/ventriculoatrial or ventriculopleural shunting.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is formed by the choroid plexus in the cavities (ventricles) of the brain. This fluid normally flows around the brain and spinal column, being continuously formed and reabsorbed. When there is a blockage in the pathway (from a number of causes) or a problem with the production or reabsorption of the CSF, it collects in the brain cavities (fluid on the brain, or hydrocephalus).

When a small flexible tube (shunt) is placed in a ventricle to drain or bypass a blockage, this procedure is called a shunt placement.

Our neurosurgeons use various types of shunt valves, both fixed pressure and programmable valves to treat hydrocephalus in babies and children. These options are determined based on each patient's individual needs.


Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP

This page was last updated on: 1/29/2019 3:21:13 PM

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