Migration complications of lumboperitoneal shunts

Abstract

BackgroundLumboperitoneal (LP) shunts have been described as a safe and effective option for idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). However, it had many complications, including migration. Herein, we report our experience regarding the incidence, different sites, presentation, and management of LP shunt migration in patients with IIH.Patients and methodsThis retrospective series reviewed the data of IIH patients who had migration after LP shunt during the period between January 2018 and June 2021.ResultsFrom 67 patients who had LP shunt, 12 patients developed shunt migration. Two cases had intrathecal migration, while three cases had intraperitoneal migration. In four cases, the distal tube migrated to the subcutaneous location at the abdomen, whereas the other two cases had the proximal tube migrated outside the thecal sac to the subcutaneous location in the back. In one case, the distal tube migrated from the abdomen to the back subcutaneously.ConclusionThe insertion of LP shunts appears to be a relatively safe technique. Shunt migration, on the other hand, is a common side effect. While various theories have been proposed to explain shunt migration, good shunt fixation remains the most critical component in preventing shunt migration.