Ventriculoperitoneal shunt migration and coiling: A report of two cases

J Pediatr Neurosci. 2012 May;7(2):114-6. doi: 10.4103/1817-1745.102572.

Abstract

Migration of the proximal and distal catheters of the ventriculoperitoneal shunt is a very rare event. Here, we report two infants with hydrocephalus and ventriculoperitoneal shunt who presented later with shunt coiling and migration. The first infant was admitted with scalp swelling around proximal incision 3 months after shunt insertion and migration and coiling of both ventricular and peritoneal catheters occurred under the scalp at that point. The second patient was referred 1 month after shunting with tense fontanel and vomiting. New brain imaging confirmed the whole shunt inside both lateral ventricles. The possible mechanisms causing this very uncommon complication and the management are explained.

Keywords: Catheter migration; coiling; management; shunt; subgaleal collection.

Publication types

  • Case Reports