Fracture into the Abdominal Cavity and the Presence of A Retroauricular Pseudocyst Are Diagnostic of A Partial Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Dysfunction

Abstract

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt malfunction is frequently observed, with the ventriculoperitoneal shunt fracture being a prevalent etiology. The occurrence of ventriculoperitoneal shunt malfunction is approximately 40% in the first year after implantation and increases to 50% in the second year. Ventriculoperitoneal shunt fracture accounts for 15% of total ventriculoperitoneal shunt malfunction incidents. Ventriculoperitoneal shunt fractures commonly occur due to calcification, immune reactions, and abrasions. The report describes a 5-year-old child who exhibited ventriculoperitoneal shunt malfunction based on clinical examination and CT scan findings. The patient presented with fever and pain in the postoperative wound located posteriorly to the left ear. Radiographic imaging of the cranium and thoracoabdominal region revealed the presence of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt fracture and a C5 spinal disconnection. Additionally, it was demonstrated that the distal catheter had relocated to the abdominal cavity. The laboratory examination and cerebrospinal fluid analysis yielded normal results. The fractured ventriculoperitoneal shunt was subsequently removed and replaced with a new one. It is important to thoroughly investigate and comprehend ventriculoperitoneal shunt malfunctions, even during routine follow-ups.

Keywords

• ventriculoperitoneal shunt malfunction
• ventriculoperitoneal shunt fracture
• cranium
• abdominal cavity
• complications