Pediatric surgery international
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Pediatr. Surg. Int. · Jun 2007
Review Case ReportsTrans-anal protrusion of ventriculo-peritoneal shunt catheter with silent bowel perforation: report of ten cases in children.
Ventriculo-peritoneal (VP) shunting used in the treatment for hydrocephalus is associated with several complications. Mechanical failure of shunt is the commonest complication of all. Visceral/bowel perforation is an unusual but serious complication of VP shunting. ⋯ Protrusion of VP shunt catheter per rectum can occur without producing peritonitis. Formal exploration and localization of entry of VP shunt catheter in bowel is not mandatory. Mini laparotomy and revision of peritoneal part of shunt can be done if there is no shunt infection.