SERVICES
VP Shunts for both Adults and Children
BRAIN
SPINAL CORD
CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM
Why would you need a Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt?
A VP shunt is compatible in the brains of both adults and children to treat hydrocephalus, a condition that causes the build-up of cerebrospinal fluid. Excessive cerebrospinal fluid increases brain pressure and is detrimental to one’s health. A VP shunt is equipped with a valve and narrow tubes called catheters. There are two types of catheters, the inflow catheter that pumps out fluid from a small puncture in the skull and the outflow catheter that travels beneath the skin to drain fluid and prepare it for reabsorption. The valve is used to regulate the amount of fluid drained from the brain.
Dr Madumo can place either of two shunts, a programmable shunt or a manual one. A manual, non-programmable shunt is only adjustable before inserting it. After a manual shunt is placed, it cannot be reprogrammed. So when cerebrospinal fluid builds up to a certain level, the VP shunt will empty according to its settings being put in place beforehand. On the other hand, a programmable shunt consists of an adjustable valve that can be adapted at any time.
What does inserting a VP shunt involve?
Inserting a ventriculoperitoneal shunt takes place under general anaesthetic in Dr Madumo’s practice rooms. After making an incision behind the patient’s ear, he drills a hole in the skull. Next, he carefully inserts the inflow catheter through the opening in the skull, which he attaches to a valve to control the amount of fluid that needs to be drained. Afterwards, he places the outflow catheter through an incision in the stomach for fluid to be reabsorbed. After connecting all the remaining parts, the shunt system can begin working as expected.
What does recovery involve?
A minor headache is typically experienced after the procedure. Dr Madumo will prescribe pain medication if needed. After shunt surgery, patients are requested not to consume any solids but instead stick to a liquid diet. At a follow-up appointment, Dr Madumo removes stitches and provides wound care instructions to prevent infection.
Why would you need a Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt?
A VP shunt is compatible in the brains of both adults and children to treat hydrocephalus, a condition that causes the build-up of cerebrospinal fluid. Excessive cerebrospinal fluid increases brain pressure and is detrimental to one’s health. A VP shunt is equipped with a valve and narrow tubes called catheters. There are two types of catheters, the inflow catheter that pumps out fluid from a small puncture in the skull and the outflow catheter that travels beneath the skin to drain fluid and prepare it for reabsorption. The valve is used to regulate the amount of fluid drained from the brain.
Dr Madumo can place either of two shunts, a programmable shunt or a manual one. A manual, non-programmable shunt is only adjustable before inserting it. After a manual shunt is placed, it cannot be reprogrammed. So when cerebrospinal fluid builds up to a certain level, the VP shunt will empty according to its settings being put in place beforehand. On the other hand, a programmable shunt consists of an adjustable valve that can be adapted at any time.
What does inserting a VP shunt involve?
Inserting a ventriculoperitoneal shunt takes place under general anaesthetic in Dr Madumo’s practice rooms. After making an incision behind the patient’s ear, he drills a hole in the skull. Next, he carefully inserts the inflow catheter through the opening in the skull, which he attaches to a valve to control the amount of fluid that needs to be drained. Afterwards, he places the outflow catheter through an incision in the stomach for fluid to be reabsorbed. After connecting all the remaining parts, the shunt system can begin working as expected.
What does recovery involve?
A minor headache is typically experienced after the procedure. Dr Madumo will prescribe pain medication if needed. After shunt surgery, patients are requested not to consume any solids but instead stick to a liquid diet. At a follow-up appointment, Dr Madumo removes stitches and provides wound care instructions to prevent infection.