What Is a Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) Shunt?
A ventriculoperitoneal shunt treats hydrocephalus, a condition that occurs when there is excess fluid in your brain cavities. This condition can be congenital, or it can be caused by a head injury, a stroke or a degenerative disease like Alzheimer’s.
Why Is VP Treatment Needed?
If left untreated, hydrocephalus can be severely debilitating, leading to cognitive damage, developmental delays, and other serious concerns. It can even be life-threatening. A ventriculoperitoneal shunt works by draining fluid away from your brain, alleviating symptoms, and improving your quality of life.
The Process
Step 1: Consultation
During your initial appointment, we’ll go over your case and review your options. We may also need to perform an MRI or CAT scan to assess your condition.
Step 2: The Procedure
Ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery is fairly straightforward. We will insert a tube-like structure to allow fluid to drain from your brain cavities, minimizing further damage.
Step 3: Recovery
Your doctor will walk you through your aftercare. You may be able to return to work and other moderate activities after a week. However, you should be careful not to hit your head for at least six weeks following the surgery.
Why Choose Dr. Hart Garner?
Neurosurgery can seem overwhelming. We are here to make sure that you are informed and comfortable with all of your options so you can make the best decision for your situation. All our specialists have years of experience in all the most advanced procedures.