Thrombosis associated with ventriculoatrial shunts

Abstract

Object: In this single-center study, the authors examined the clinical characteristics, risk factors, treatment strategies, and outcomes in patients with thrombosis associated with ventriculoatrial (VA) shunts.

Methods: Inpatient and outpatient charts of patients who underwent treatment and follow-up in the Hematology-Oncology Division at the authors' institution and in whom thrombosis developed secondary to a VA shunt placement were reviewed. A complete thrombophilia work-up was performed in each patient, and these records were also reviewed. Treatment including medical and surgical management was noted and outcome data were recorded.

Results: Resolution of thrombosis was seen after anticoagulation therapy in all patients; this may be an alternative to surgical therapy.

Conclusions: Patients with VA shunts represent a unique group at risk for thrombosis. The duration of anticoagulation therapy must be individualized. However, larger studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy of screening for asymptomatic thrombosis and to investigate the role of prophylactic anticoagulation.