Your Ventricular-Peritoneal Shunt
Ventricular-peritoneal shunts are made to work for a long period of time. However, sometimes problems can occur and it may need replacing. This can happen at any time.
There are three main reasons why a problem may occur.
These are:
- A blockage in the shunt.
- An infection in the shunt.
- Skin breakdown around the area of the shunt.
Blockage
If there is a blockage in the tubing of the shunt it can cause an increase of pressure inside your head. This is called hydrocephalus.
It can cause you to have:
- Severe headaches.
- Feeling sick or being sick.
- Feeling sleepy.
- Blurred vision.
- Changes in your personality.
- Worsening school performance (concentration or handwriting).
- Worsening problems with balance or unsteady on feet.
- If you have epilepsy there may be a change in the number or pattern of seizures.
Infection and skin breakdown around the shunt
Sometimes the shunt can become infected and may cause you to feel unwell.
Symptoms you may have are:
- Redness around the shunt.
- Soreness around the shunt.
- Broken skin around the shunt.
Follow Up
Sometimes further surgery is necessary to lengthen the shunt as you grow.
Advice
The sports we ban are boxing, due to the repetitive head injury, heading a football and competitive rugby. We do however, urge caution over scuba diving as well. This is because of the risk of serious harm should there be a problem whilst deep under-water.
It is important that you contact Ward 52 immediately if you experience any problems with your shunt.
Contact details for under 16 years
Please contact Ward 52, Children’s Hospital, Clarendon Wing, Leeds General Infirmary, Great George Street, LS1 3EX
Telephone – 0113 392 7452
If you are 16 years or over please contact:
Ward L24 – 0113 392 7424 or Ward L25 – 0113 392 7425