Does a shunt help IIH?

Shunting has been in practice for the treatment of idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) for many years. The use of a lumboperitoneal shunt is indicated in patients with IIH for whom lifestyle changes and oral medication have not fully relieved the patient’s symptoms.

What type of shunt is used for IIH?

The commonest form shunt used in IIH is Lumboperitoneal shunt (LP).

Is an LP shunt better than a VP shunt?

The presented results suggest that LP shunts reduce the spinal CSF volume, while VP shunts keep the cranial and spinal CSF volume in the physiological range.

How long does a LP shunt last?

It is difficult to predict how long shunts will last, but some practitioners note that about half of all shunts need to be revised or replaced after 6 years.

Is VP shunt for life?

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.

What are the side effects of a shunt?

Some of the most common risks of CSF shunts include infection, shunt malfunction, and improper drainage. Infection from a shunt may produce symptoms such as a low-grade fever, soreness of the neck or shoulder muscles, and redness or tenderness along the shunt tract.

Where is a LP shunt placed?

To implant a lumboperitoneal shunt, an incision is made near the base of the spine, and a small catheter is inserted into the subarachnoid space of the lower spine. This is the same location where a lumbar puncture is taken.

What should you avoid with a LP shunt?

However, people with LP shunts should avoid any activity which involves twisting at the waist, as this can dislodge the shunt.

• Martial arts. Any activity that involves being grabbed around the neck is not advised, as the shunt tubing in the neck can crack.
• Rugby.
• Gymnastics and dance.
• Water sports.
• Golf.
• Other activities.

Can a LP shunt be removed?

Most LP shunts remain in a patient’s body forever unless revisions or relocation is required. It is difficult to remove a patient’s lumbar shunt because determining if their condition has improved because of the shunt or improved despite the shunt is almost impossible.

Can you live a normal life with a VP shunt?

Overview. Many people with normal pressure hydrocephalus enjoy a normal life with the help of a shunt. Regular, ongoing checkups with the neurosurgeon will help ensure that your shunt is working correctly, your progress is on track, and you are free to keep living the way you want.