Shunts

A shunt is used to treat hydrocephalus. It is a long narrow tube inserted into the ventricles with a one-way valve under the skin that drains the excess cerebrospinal fluid from the ventricles and redirects it into the abdomen or heart where it is reabsorbed.

The shunt is likely to stay in place throughout life. It can be surgically revised or replaced if it malfunctions due to a blockage, kinking, material failure or a problem with the valve.

 

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