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Protrusion of ventriculo peritoneal shunt through the anus: report of two cases

A Adeloye1

  • 1Department of Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Malawi, Central Africa.

East African Medical Journal
|May 1, 1997
PubMed

Insights

Spontaneous protrusion of abdominal shunt ends through the anus occurred in two African children with hydrocephalus. The catheters were removed easily, avoiding major surgery, suggesting potential links to weak bowel muscles or stiff catheters.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Neurosurgery
  • Gastrointestinal Surgery

Background:

  • Hydrocephalus is a common condition in pediatric neurosurgery.
  • Ventriculoperitoneal shunts are a standard treatment for hydrocephalus.
  • Complications of shunts require careful monitoring and management.

Observation:

  • Two cases of spontaneous anus protrusion of the abdominal end of ventriculo peritoneal shunts were observed in African children.
  • The protruding shunt catheter was successfully removed in both cases.
  • No major abdominal surgery was required for the removal.

Findings:

  • Spontaneous extrusion of the abdominal end of ventriculo peritoneal shunts through the anus is a rare complication.
  • Potential predisposing factors include weak bowel musculature, particularly in myelomeningocele cases.
  • The use of stiff peritoneal catheters may also contribute to this complication.

Implications:

  • This complication can be managed conservatively, avoiding extensive surgery.
  • Awareness of potential risk factors can aid in prevention strategies.
  • Further research into catheter material and surgical techniques may reduce shunt-related complications.

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