Hydrocephalus is the abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. The incidence at birth is estimated to be 1 per 1,000 live births. Historically, the most common procedure to treat hydrocephalus is the placement of a CSF shunt. Complications of CSF shunts may include shunt malfunction and/or shunt infection. Misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of shunt malfunction or shunt infection can lead to long-term neurologic deficits or even death.

These clinical practice guidelines were developed with the goal of standardization of work-up for ventricular shunt malfunctions and infections based on current evidence-based practices The clinical practice guidelines focus on providing high-quality, cost-effective, safe care by streamlining initial work-up and standardizing imaging recommendations.

Ventricular shunt malfunction or infection guidelines team

E. Haley Vance, DNP, CPNP-AC – Pediatric Neurosurgery
Holly Hanson, M.D. – Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Cody Penrod, M.D. – Pediatric Emergency Medicine (former PEM fellow)
Barron Frazier, M.D. – Pediatrics (incoming PEM Fellow)
Truc Le, M.D. – Pediatric Critical Care
Sumit Pruthi, M.D. – Pediatric Radiology
Cristina Estrada, M.D. – Pediatric Emergency Medicine
Christopher Bonfield, M.D. – Pediatric Neurosurgery
Robert Naftel, M.D. – Pediatric Neurosurgery
Jay Wellons, M.D. – Pediatric Neurosurgery

Clinical Practice Guidelines: Ventricular Shunt Malfunction or Infection

CLINICAL PRACTICE GUIDELINES (FULL LIST)

VENTRICULAR SHUNT MALFUNTION (CPG)

VENTRICULAR SHUNT INFECTION (CPG)