Cerebral shunt
Cerebral Shunt
A Cerebral Shunt (pronunciation: /sɪˈriːbrəl ʃʌnt/) is a medical device primarily used to treat hydrocephalus, a condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. The term originates from the Latin word 'cerebrum' meaning brain and the English word 'shunt' meaning to divert.
Function
The primary function of a cerebral shunt is to divert the excess cerebrospinal fluid from the brain to another part of the body where it can be absorbed. This helps to relieve pressure on the brain, preventing or alleviating symptoms associated with hydrocephalus.
Types
There are several types of cerebral shunts, including the ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VP shunt), ventriculoatrial shunt (VA shunt), and lumboperitoneal shunt (LP shunt). The type of shunt used depends on the patient's specific condition and needs.
Risks and Complications
While cerebral shunts can be life-saving, they also carry risks and potential complications. These can include infection, shunt malfunction, and overdrainage of cerebrospinal fluid. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential to manage these risks.
Related Terms
- Hydrocephalus: A condition characterized by an abnormal accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain.
- Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt: A type of cerebral shunt that diverts fluid from the brain's ventricles to the peritoneal cavity.
- Ventriculoatrial Shunt: A type of cerebral shunt that diverts fluid from the brain's ventricles to the right atrium of the heart.
- Lumboperitoneal Shunt: A type of cerebral shunt that diverts fluid from the lumbar region of the spine to the peritoneal cavity.
- Overdrainage: A potential complication of shunt placement, characterized by the removal of too much cerebrospinal fluid.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cerebral shunt
- Wikipedia's article - Cerebral shunt
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