Related Experiment Videos
Lumboperitoneal shunt complicated with chronic tonsillar herniation: a case report
W Y Huang1, C S Chi, W J Shian
1Department of Pediatrics, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Zhonghua Yi Xue Za Zhi = Chinese Medical Journal; Free China Ed
|May 1, 1995
Summary
Lumboperitoneal shunts treat hydrocephalus but can cause delayed tonsillar herniation. Long-term patient follow-up is crucial to detect this rare complication early.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Pediatric Neurology
- Medical Device Complications
Background:
- Communicating hydrocephalus is often treated with lumboperitoneal (LP) shunts.
- LP shunts offer advantages like ease of insertion and low infection rates.
- However, potential complications such as tonsillar herniation exist.
Observation:
- A rare case of delayed tonsillar herniation occurred in an 8-year-old girl.
- The patient had received an LP shunt at 20 days old.
- Tonsillar herniation developed eight years after shunt placement.
Findings:
- Tonsillar herniation, a rare complication of LP shunts, can manifest years after insertion.
- This complication, though infrequent, necessitates vigilant long-term monitoring.
- The case highlights the gradual development of this serious adverse event.
Implications:
- Careful, long-term follow-up is essential for patients with lumboperitoneal shunts.
- Early detection of complications like tonsillar herniation can prevent severe neurological damage.
- This case underscores the importance of ongoing patient surveillance after neurosurgical interventions.