Extrusion of ventriculoperitoneal shunt cathether through a herniotomy wound in an infant: Case report and review of literature

Abstract

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion through the insertion of ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) is the standard treatment for hydrocephalus. Many complications have been reported following VPS insertion. A case of extrusion of a VPS through a herniotomy wound is reported in a 4‑month old male infant, who had a herniotomy performed on him by a General Practitioner (GP) for scrotal swelling. The extruded VPS was first externalized to the chest to aid healing of the groin wound and maintain CSF diversion. Later the VPS was removed to aid sepsis control. Although the parents did not comply with follow up instructions following their request for discharge, the patient remained well during telephonic communication 7 weeks after discharge. The case demonstrated higher risk for abdominal complications in the setting of background spina bifida and presence of intraperitoneal catheter. The need for optimal management of such complications by appropriate specialists cannot be over emphasised.

Keywords: Herniotomy, infant, sepsis, shunt extrusion, ventriculoperitoneal shunt