Ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection after augmentation cystoplasty

Abstract

Purpose: We characterized the occurrence of ventriculoperitoneal shunt infections after augmentation cystoplasty.

Materials and methods: We reviewed the records of 20 myelodysplastic children with ventriculoperitoneal shunts followed for a minimum of 12 months after augmentation.

Results: In 4 children (20%) a ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection developed. The single gram-positive infection occurred early (less than 30 days). The 3 gram-negative infections were delayed presentations (greater than 30 days). Organisms in 2 of the 3 gram-negative infections had been noted in a preoperative urine culture.

Conclusions: Ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection after bladder augmentation is common. Delayed presentation of shunt infections may indicate gram-negative infection. Sterilization of the urinary tract is indicated before augmentation.