Recurrent Breast Cerebrospinal Fluid Pseudocyst: A Complication of Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Placement

Ann Plast Surg. 2019 Jul;83(1):108-111. doi: 10.1097/SAP.0000000000001769.

Abstract

Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt complications involving the breast are rare, with the majority involving the formation of a cerebrospinal fluid pseudocyst. We present the case of a 22-year-old woman with recurrent cerebrospinal fluid pseudocyst secondary to fracture of a VP shunt at the time of breast surgery for breast asymmetry. We review the literature on this topic and present our case that highlights the need of the breast surgeon to take into account the position of VP shunts placed at birth. Shunts placed on the chest wall may result in breast asymmetry requiring surgery in the adolescent. Shunts in place since birth may be at greater risk of fracture during breast implant placement due to manipulation of a calcified and fragile shunt leading to formation of a cerebrospinal fluid pseudocyst.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Breast Implants / adverse effects*
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid / metabolism*
  • Cysts / etiology*
  • Cysts / surgery
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Hydrocephalus / diagnosis
  • Hydrocephalus / surgery*
  • Mammaplasty / adverse effects*
  • Mammaplasty / methods
  • Rare Diseases
  • Recurrence
  • Reoperation / methods
  • Risk Assessment
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt / adverse effects*
  • Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt / methods
  • Young Adult