Combating Complications following Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting in a New Centre

Background: Over the years, different approaches to the treatment of hydrocephalus have evolved across all age groups; however, ventriculoperitoneal shunting (VPS) remains the most widely used procedure, albeit with many complications. Aims: The aim of our study is to prospectively look at the incidence of complications following VPS in our centre, and to suggest ways of minimizing these complications. Patients and Methods: Between April 2006 and March 2008, all patients who had VPS in our centre were recruited for the study using a structured protocol from the time of admission to the time of discharge; data were augmented with case notes along with clinic and theatre records. Our centre is located in south-east Nigeria, and we commenced neurosurgical services in April 2006. Results: Within this 2-year period, 49 patients were definitively diagnosed with hydrocephalus and 32 underwent VPS, following which 9 (28%) had various complications – with shunt infection being the most common (n = 3; 9.3%). Conclusion: VPS is the definitive treatment modality for hydrocephalus in our centre, and shunt infection (as reported by several other authors) is the most common complication we encounter. Adopting a strict protocol for the prevention of perioperative contamination, as well as educating caregivers, is advocated to reduce this complication in any new neurosurgical centre.