Hydrocephalus and shunts in children with brain tumors

Abstract

Children with brain tumors are at risk for developing hydrocephalus necessitating placement of a permanent shunt catheter. As comprehensive, interdisciplinary, multispecialty care is required for these patients, the pediatric oncology nurse must become knowledgeable about caring for children with a shunt. This article focuses on the care of the pediatric neuro-oncology patient requiring shunting for hydrocephalus, including a review of cerebrospinal fluid flow and hydrocephalus, determinants of shunt placement, complications of ventriculoperitoneal shunts, and nursing considerations.