Life-threatening acute hydrocephalus after traumatic ventriculoperitoneal-shunt disconnection

Abstract

Background: Childhood hydrocephalus is one of the most common neurosurgical problems in the world. Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) is a mainstay of treatment for hydrocephalus even if it is associated with a list of complications. One of the most common causes of shunt malfunction is mechanical shunt failure. However, mechanical shunt malfunction following minor trauma over the shunt path is a rare scenario. Case presentation: We present a 13-year-old boy who came with signs and symptoms of acute hydrocephalus after he sustained minor trauma over the shunt path on his head. CT scan showed shunt disconnection with acute hydrocephalus. Emergency extra ventricular drain, endoscopic ventricular shunt retrieval and VPS revision were made and the patient recovered well. Discussion: VPS fracture or disconnection should be looked for in a person who sustained trauma over the shunt path even if the trauma is trivial.

Keywords

• Ventriculoperitoneal-shunt malfunction
• Hydrocephalus
• Trauma to Ventriculoperitoneal-shunt