A modified technique for placement of the peritoneal end of a shunt system: technical note

Infection and extrusion of the peritoneal catheter can complicate shunt surgery. We present a modification in the technique of peritoneal catheter placement which can help reduce the incidence of these complications, as it places the peritoneal catheter away from the abdominal wound. The subcutaneous passer is first introduced into the peritoneal cavity through the abdominal incision. It is then thrust superficially and manipulated into the subcutaneous plane, from where the procedure follows the conventional steps. We have followed this technique for 6 years without any additional hazard attributed to this procedure.