Question

Briefly explain why a VP shunt is performed and what medical condition it addresses?

Answer 1

A VP Shunt is a procedure which is used to reduce pressure in the condition of hydrocephalus, which is a disease which caused due to the fluid accumulation in the brain. The fluid accumulated is cerebrospinal fluid. In normal concentrations, the CSF serves as a nutrient medium which circulates and provides nutrients in the brain and spinal cord and removes waste products. It is ultimately reabsorbed in the blood. When this flow is disturbed, then the fluid is accumulated in the brain causing hydrocephalus. The VP shunts are placed in the ventricles of the brain and the patient is put under general anaesthesia. A small incision is made behind the ear and a hole is drilled in the skull from where the catheter is inserted. There are two catheters in which one is placed subcutaneously behind the ear, and the other is inserted into the skull. The catheter drains the CSF into the abdomen through the chest where it is absorbed. The pressure is relieved from the skull and hence the condition of hydrocephalus is treated.