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Adjustable shunt valve reprogramming at home: safety and feasibility
Christian W Sikorski1, David S Rosen, David M Frim
1Section of Neurosurgery, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA.
Neurosurgery
|February 10, 2007
Summary
Home use of shunt valve programming devices is safe and effective for selected patients, leading to high satisfaction. Proper patient selection and education are key to successful implementation.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Shunt valve resistance can be adjusted noninvasively using magnetic programming devices to alter cerebrospinal fluid drainage.
- Home use of these devices by patients and families was implemented in select cases between 2001 and 2005.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the safety and efficacy of patients using shunt valve programming devices at home.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records for patients with home shunt valve programming devices.
- Survey distributed to patients/families regarding their experiences with the device.
- Tabulation of responses and statistical analysis.
Main Results:
- Twenty patient/family surveys were returned.
- No adverse events were linked to home programmer use.
- 85% reported significant benefit, 15% reported some benefit from home programming.
Conclusions:
- Home use of shunt valve programming devices is a safe practice with high patient satisfaction.
- Careful patient selection, thorough education, and strong physician communication are vital for success.
