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Review
. 2023 Oct;39(10):2719-2728.
doi: 10.1007/s00381-023-06070-4. Epub 2023 Jul 18.

Cerebrospinal fluid shunt malfunctions: A reflective review

Sharon Y Y Low  1   2   3   4 , John R W Kestle  5 , Marion L Walker  6 , Wan Tew Seow  7   8   9
Affiliations
Review

Cerebrospinal fluid shunt malfunctions: A reflective review

Sharon Y Y Low et al. Childs Nerv Syst. 2023 Oct.

Abstract

Purpose: Pediatric hydrocephalus is a common and challenging condition. To date, the ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) is still the main lifesaving treatment option. Nonetheless, it remains imperfect and is associated with multiple short- and long-term complications. This paper is a reflective review of the current state of the VPS, our knowledge gaps, and the future state of shunts in neurosurgical practice.

Methods and results: The authors' reflections are based on a review of shunts and shunt-related literature.

Conclusion: Overall, there is still an urgent need for the neurosurgical community to actively improve current strategies for shunt failures and shunt-related morbidity. The authors emphasize the role of collaborative efforts amongst like-minded clinicians to establish pragmatic approaches to avoid shunt complications.

Keywords: Cerebrospinal fluid shunts; Hydrocephalus; Shunt complications; Shunt failure; Ventriculoperitoneal shunt.

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