Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026

Neuronavigation and Laparoscopy Guided Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Insertion for the Treatment of Hydrocephalus
Published on: October 14, 2022
A rare but life-threatening complication of ventriculo-atrial shunt
P Tonn1, J M Gilsbach, I Kreitschmann-Andermahr
1Department of Emergency Psychiatry, Clinic North, Hamburg, Germany. tonn@neuro-info.de
Abstract:
Insertion of ventriculoperitoneal and ventriculoatrial shunts is routinely performed. Infarction pneumonia and atrial thrombus formation are described as very rare complications of ventriculoatrial shunts. We present the case of a female patient with ventriculoatrial shunt insertion as long term treatment for aequeductal stenosis who presented with recurrent episodes of dyspnoea, chest pain, and unilateral pleural effusion. Diagnostic evaluation revealed a positive D-dimer test, bilateral basal infiltrates and pleural effusion. Transesophageal echocardiography established the diagnosis of a thrombus in the right atrium. Laboratory testing for thrombophilia revealed a homozygous factor V Leiden mutation. In the following, a shunt revision was performed.
Related Concept Videos
Disturbances in Heart Rhythm
Arrhythmias are categorized by their speed, rhythm, and origin. A slow heart...
Dysrhythmias IV: Characteristics of Bradyarrhythmias
Dysrhythmias III: Characteristics of Dysrhythmias
Dysrhythmias II: Classification of Tachyarrhythmias
Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care