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Gastric perforation due to ventriculo-peritoneal shunt
M Alonso-Vanegas1, J L Alvarez, L Delgado
1Department of Neurosurgery and Neuroradiology, Hospital Juárez de México, México.
Pediatric Neurosurgery
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Ventriculo-peritoneal shunting can lead to gastric perforation. A newborn developed this complication when the shunt catheter penetrated her stomach, requiring surgical removal and replacement.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Neurosurgery
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Ventriculo-peritoneal (VP) shunting is a common procedure for hydrocephalus in infants.
- Gastric perforation is a rare but serious complication associated with VP shunting.
- This case highlights a delayed presentation of VP shunt complication.
Observation:
- A newborn girl with neurological issues underwent VP shunt insertion.
- The infant was readmitted at 4 months with increased head circumference and malnutrition.
- Exploratory surgery revealed the VP shunt catheter had perforated the stomach.
Findings:
- The VP shunt catheter, initially placed with 20 cm in the peritoneal cavity, migrated and perforated the stomach.
- The patient presented with signs of malnutrition and increased head circumference, but no peritoneal irritation.
- Successful removal of the VP shunt and replacement with a ventriculo-atrial system led to recovery.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of monitoring for delayed complications after VP shunting.
- Understanding potential migration pathways of VP shunt catheters is crucial for prevention.
- Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are key to managing gastric perforation secondary to VP shunting.