Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 20, 2026
Neuronavigation and Laparoscopy Guided Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Insertion for the Treatment of Hydrocephalus
Published on: October 14, 2022
[Migration of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt in the liver: A rare complication]
C Eap1, T Blauwblomme, L Dupuy
1Service de neurochirurgie, hôpital Foch, 40, rue Worth, 92150 Suresnes, France. chris.eap@gmail.com
Abstract:
We report on a case of migration inside the liver of the distal end of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt catheter in an adult patient. A simple laparotomy permitted the surgical removal with no haemorrhagic complication. We discuss the other cases reported in the literature and we outline the need to perform an abdominal CT scan in patients carrying a VP shunt with digestive symptoms.
Insights
A rare case of ventriculoperitoneal shunt catheter migration into the liver was successfully treated with surgery. Abdominal CT scans are recommended for shunt patients experiencing digestive issues.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Device Complications
Background:
- Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts are used to treat hydrocephalus.
- Complications can arise from VP shunt placement, including catheter migration.
- Intra-abdominal migration of VP shunt distal ends is a recognized, though uncommon, complication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of distal ventriculoperitoneal shunt catheter migration into the liver in an adult.
- To review existing literature on similar cases of intrahepatic VP shunt migration.
- To emphasize the diagnostic utility of abdominal CT scans in patients with VP shunts presenting with gastrointestinal symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Surgical case report of a single adult patient.
- Literature review of reported cases of intra-abdominal VP shunt migration.
- Clinical case discussion and analysis.
Main Results:
- Successful surgical removal of the migrated distal VP shunt catheter from the liver via simple laparotomy.
- No intraoperative or postoperative hemorrhagic complications occurred.
- The patient's condition was resolved following surgical intervention.
Conclusions:
- Intrahepatic migration of the distal VP shunt catheter is a rare complication that can be managed surgically.
- Simple laparotomy is a feasible approach for removal without significant bleeding.
- Abdominal CT scan is crucial for diagnosing VP shunt complications, especially in patients with unexplained digestive symptoms.
