How does a VP shunt get infected?
Shunt infection is most often caused by nonpathogenic skin (commensal) flora that colonize the shunt device. Coagulase-negative and -positive staphylococcal species are most often responsible (Huebner and Goldmann, 1999).
When do VP shunt infections occur?
Shunt Infection This type of infection is most likely seen one to three months after surgery but can occur up to six months or more after the placement of a shunt. Patients treated with ventriculoatrial (VA) shunts may develop a more serious infection, which may enter the bloodstream.
How do you treat a VP shunt infection?
Treatment of a shunt infection may include removal of the infected hardware, placement of a drainage device, and use of IV or intraventricular antibiotics.
What are the symptoms of a blocked VP shunt?
Shunt Malfunction Signs
- Headaches.
- Vomiting.
- Lethargy (sleepiness)
- Irritability.
- Swelling or redness along the shunt tract.
- Decreased school performance.
- Periods of confusion.
- Seizures.
What is the most common cause of shunt infection in hydrocephalus patients?
Infection. Shunt infections are usually caused by the patient’s own skin organisms (most common is Staphylococcus epidermidis), which gain access to shunt tubing during the shunt procedure.
What is VPS infection?
Abstract. Purpose: Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) is the most common treatment modality for hydrocephalus. However, VPS infection is a common and serious complication with high rates of mortality and morbidity.
How do you check if VP shunt is working?
In many cases, diagnostic imaging, such as CT scans or X-rays, is performed to rule in or rule out shunt dysfunction. These imaging tests expose patients to radiation, and many times these tests indicate that the shunt is in fact working properly.
When should a VP shunt be removed?
Shunting is successful in reducing pressure in the brain in most people. VP shunts are likely to require replacement after several years, especially in small children. The average lifespan of an infant’s shunt is two years. Adults and children over the age of 2 may not need a shunt replacement for eight or more years.