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Updated: Apr 28, 2026
Neuronavigation and Laparoscopy Guided Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Insertion for the Treatment of Hydrocephalus
Published on: October 14, 2022
Repeated cannulation of umbilical hernia with Ventriculoperiotoneal shunt catheter
1Department of Neurosurgery, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia robertslaidlaw@gmail.com.
Insights
Ventriculoperitoneal shunts treat hydrocephalus but can have rare complications. This case highlights an unusual distal catheter placement in an umbilical hernia, posing a diagnostic challenge, especially in obese patients.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Medical Devices
- Clinical Case Reports
Background:
- Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts are standard for hydrocephalus management in adults and children.
- Infection is the most frequent VP shunt complication, often necessitating revision.
- Other less common complications require consideration for comprehensive patient care.
Abstract:
Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts are commonly used to manage hydrocephalus in both adult and paediatric populations. Whilst infection remains by far the most common complication leading to shunt revision other causes need to be considered. Our case report examines a 62-year-old female who presents for operative management of a Choroid Plexus Papilloma. Post-operatively she develops hydrocephalus and is managed with a VP shunt. Interestingly the distal end of the catheter cannulated an unknown umbilical hernia twice creating diagnostic dilemma. Issues around shunt insertion in the morbidly obese population and the basic science behind cerebrospinal fluid reabsorption are explored. Although this is a rare complication it should be considered in any post-operative shunt patient is slow to recover particularly if they are obese.
