Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 5, 2026

Neuronavigation and Laparoscopy Guided Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Insertion for the Treatment of Hydrocephalus
Published on: October 14, 2022
Analysis of Codman microcerebrospinal fluid shunt.
Axel Sandvig1,2, Kai Arnell3, Jan Malm1
1Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Neurosciences, Division of Neuro, Head and Neck, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden.
Replacing the Codman microadjustable valve (CMAV) with the Codman Hakim adjustable valve shunt (CHAV) in pediatric hydrocephalus patients is safe. This study found the switch well-tolerated, with no further complications in most cases.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Pediatric Neurology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Ventriculo-peritoneal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunts are standard for pediatric hydrocephalus.
- The Codman microadjustable valve (CMAV) is designed for pediatric use.
Purpose of the Study:
- Analyze complications of CMAV insertion in children.
- Evaluate complications when replacing CMAV with adult-type Codman Hakim adjustable valve shunt (CHAV).
- Assess in vitro characteristics of CMAV and correlate with clinical performance.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of hydrocephalic children with CMAV, some later replaced by CHAV.
- In vitro testing of CMAV shunts (opening pressure, resistance, sensitivity, etc.).
- Correlation of bench test results with clinical outcomes.
Main Results:
- 27% of patients experienced early complications (infections, hygromas, dysfunction).
- 13 children had shunts replaced over 10 years; six switched to CHAV without further issues.
- Bench tests generally aligned with manufacturer specifications for CMAV.
Conclusions:
- Replacing CMAV with CHAV is safe and well-tolerated in pediatric hydrocephalus.
- In vitro findings supported the clinical performance of the CMAV.
- The study supports the safe interchangeability of these shunt types.
Related Concept Videos
Shunt Admittances
To model this effect, the method of images is employed. This method involves replacing the Earth with an image conductor that mirrors the original...
The Fluid Mosaic Model
Fluid Pressure
According to Pascal's law, a fluid at rest will generate equal pressure in all directions. This pressure is measured as a force per unit area, and its magnitude depends on the fluid's specific...
Accelerating Fluids
The motion of the liquid within this infinitesimal cylinder is considered to obtain the pressure difference. Three vertical forces act on this liquid:
Cerebrospinal Fluid
CSF Production
CSF is produced mainly in the choroid plexus, a network of capillaries and ependymal cells located within the ventricular system of the brain....
Characteristics of Fluids
Fluids, which include both liquids and gases, are substances that deform continuously under shearing stress. For example, water and oil are liquids with molecules that can...

