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Updated: Jun 7, 2026
14:59
Neuronavigation and Laparoscopy Guided Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Insertion for the Treatment of Hydrocephalus
Published on: October 14, 2022
Removal of ventricular shunts
Wajd N Al-Holou1, Jayson A Sack, Hugh J L Garton
1Department of Neurosurgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich., USA.
Pediatric Neurosurgery
|October 22, 2010
Summary
Some patients with hydrocephalus may be able to have their cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunts removed. A shunt weaning protocol was successful in 7 out of 10 patients, suggesting potential shunt independence.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Neurology
- Pediatric Surgery
Background:
- Most patients with ventriculoperitoneal shunts require lifelong cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion.
- A subset of patients may achieve shunt independence and be candidates for shunt removal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility and outcomes of attempting shunt removal in patients with hydrocephalus.
- To identify factors associated with successful shunt weaning and removal.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 661 hydrocephalus patients over 10 years.
- A shunt weaning protocol was attempted in 10 patients prior to shunt removal.
Main Results:
- Seven of 10 patients successfully weaned off their CSF shunts.
- Indications for weaning included recurrent complications, asymptomatic disconnection, and overdrainage.
- Patients who failed weaning were more likely to have a history of shunt failure with ventriculomegaly.
Conclusions:
- A small proportion of patients with shunted hydrocephalus may benefit from shunt removal.
- Shunt weaning protocols can be successful in select patients, potentially avoiding lifelong device dependence.
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