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Ventriculoperitoneal shunt - Recovery

Alternative Names

Shunt - ventriculoperitoneal; VP shunt

Expectations after surgery:

The outcome for the surgery itself is good. But if hydrocephalus is related to other conditions, such as spina bifida, brain tumor, meningitis, encephalitis, or hemorrhage, these conditions could affect the prognosis. The degree of hydrocephalus before surgery will also affect the outcome.

Support groups for families of children with hydrocephalus or spina bifida are available in most areas.

Convalescence:

The doctor will closely monitor your vital signs and neurological status. You may get medication for pain. Intravenous fluids and antibiotics are given. You will be checked closely to ensure that the shunt is working properly.

Most people need 2 to 3 days of bedrest in the hospital before they can go home. Often, imaging studies such as CT scans are done after the surgery to confirm that the shunt is in the right place and that the hydrocephalus has gone away.

  • Reviewed last on: 5/3/2007
  • Robert A. Cowles, M.D., Assistant Professor of Surgery, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.