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Updated: Aug 11, 2026
14:59
Neuronavigation and Laparoscopy Guided Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Insertion for the Treatment of Hydrocephalus
Published on: October 14, 2022
[Ventriculoperitoneal shunt malfunction due to pregnancy]
Yasuo Sasagawa1, Takashi Sasaki, Tatsushi Fuji
1Department of Neurosurgery, Takaoka Municipal Hospital, Japan.
No Shinkei Geka. Neurological Surgery
|February 21, 2006
Summary
A pregnant woman with a history of hydrocephalus experienced shunt malfunction. Manual pumping of a flushing device resolved symptoms and hydrocephalus, allowing for a healthy delivery.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Obstetrics
Background:
- A 27-year-old pregnant patient presented with gait disturbance and disorientation.
- She had a history of hydrocephalus treated with a ventriculo-peritoneal (VP) shunt for cerebellar medulloblastoma at age 16.
Observation:
- Neurological examination revealed disorientation, ataxic gait, and convergence nystagmus.
- Imaging (CT, MRI) and cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed ventricular dilatation but no tumor recurrence.
- Shunt flow studies indicated no obstruction, suggesting a functional shunt malfunction.
Findings:
- Pumping of a shunt flushing device led to gradual symptom improvement and complete resolution of hydrocephalus on follow-up MRI.
- The patient was discharged and managed the shunt independently at home.
- She subsequently delivered a healthy infant via vaginal labor, with no further need for shunt intervention.
Implications:
- This case highlights a non-obstructive shunt malfunction treatable with external manipulation.
- Successful management of hydrocephalus in pregnancy is crucial for maternal and fetal well-being.
- Intermittent external pumping may be a viable strategy for managing certain types of shunt dysfunction.
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