VP Shunt

You have a VP (ventriculo-peritoneal) shunt. This is used to treat hydrocephalus, a condition that causes excess fluid production within the brain. Without treatment, the excess fluid would cause pressure on the brain. In a growing child, the excess pressure inside the skull will cause the head to enlarge. The shunt allows the excess fluid to overflow through the shunt tubing into the abdominal cavity where the body can absorb it.

A valve is attached to the tubing which allows fluid to flow only in one direction—away from the brain. You can feel the valve below the scalp, usually behind the ear. There are different types of valves and your doctor can explain if yours is working properly.

Home care

If there was concern today about the function of the shunt, check the valve daily for the next three days and report any concerns to your doctor. Once you know it is working well, you don't need to check the valve again unless advised to do so by your doctor.

Follow up

Follow up as advised by the doctor or our staff. 

Get medical attention right away if any of the following occur

• Headache

• Unexplained fever over 100.0ºF (37.8ºC) oral, or over 101.0ºF (38.3ºC) rectal

• Unusual drowsiness or confusion

• Visual changes or changes in pupil size or shape

• Repeated vomiting

• Seizure activity