Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Revision Research Articles

A Rare Case of Bilateral Retroperitoneal Ovaries: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Introduction: Retroperitoneal gynecologic tumors and cysts are rare. They are often asymptomatic or present similarly to their intraperitoneal counterpart with vague abdominal discomfort and distention. Our literature review revealed that many retroperitoneal cysts are found intraoperatively due to their benign predominance consistent with their ultrasound findings. The rarity of retroperitoneal gynecologic tumors and cysts creates uncertainty regarding the best practice management for general gynecologists caught off guard by their location when found intraoperatively. Rarer still are retroperitoneal ovaries. There are few cases of retroperitoneal ovary displacement in the literature, most often associated with female neonatal incarcerated inguinal hernia repair surgery. We found one case report involving an intraoperatively found retroperitoneal ovarian cystadenofibroma in a patient with a hernia repair performed in infancy. To our knowledge, there are no bilateral retroperitoneal ovaries described in the literature. Objective: To report a rare case of bilateral retroperitoneal ovaries in an 11 year old female. Methods: Case report. Results: We present an 11-year-old female with a past medical history of Dandy-Walker malformation and hydrocephalus status post ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt with six laparoscopic VP shunt revisions who endorsed hirsutism and irregular, heavy, and painful menstrual periods. Her family history is significant for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and Lynch syndrome. Physical exam revealed mild abdominal distention and lower abdominal tenderness. She had an elevated estradiol, luteinizing hormone (LH), and total and free testosterone. Normally, an elevated estradiol causes a negative feedback response that results in a low LH. Due to these abnormal results, a pelvic ultrasound was ordered to rule out a potential estrogen secreting ovarian tumor. Ultrasound revealed a large anechoic structure in the left adnexa not definitively separated from the ovary measuring 13.0 x 7.7 x 10.7 cm. Radiologic differential diagnosis included large simple cyst, hemorrhagic cyst, and serous neoplasm. A referral to an adolescent gynecologist was made where the patient presented five months later with 25-pound weight gain, constipation, and a hard belly. Repeat ultrasound was consistent with a left ovarian simple cyst with an increased size measuring 16.78 x 12.58 x 8.66 cm as well as a new finding consistent with a right ovarian simple cyst measuring 4.96 x 4.48 x 3.61 cm. Due to her history of severe abdominal adhesions secondary to multiple laparoscopic VP shunt revisions, likely endometriosis, and large ovarian cyst, she was referred to a gynecologic oncologist where she was consented for robotic assisted bilateral ovarian cystectomy and lysis of adhesions. In the operating room, extensive pelvic adhesions were lysed to reveal bilateral retroperitoneal ovaries. The right cyst was drained of clear fluid, revealing no internal complexity, and was completely excised. Persistent pelvic adhesions and cyst size prolonged the time required to excise the left ovarian cyst wall. Once open, papillary excrescences were seen inside the cyst raising concern for a borderline ovarian tumor. The decision was made to remove the cyst wall in its entirety regardless of increased risk of ovarian function compromise. Restoration of normal anatomy was not attainable, and her bilateral ovaries remained embedded in the side walls and superior to the iliac vessels. Pathology revealed a benign 8 cm right paratubal cyst and a benign 18 cm left serous cystadenoma with papillary excrescences. Conclusions: Pelvic anatomy can be greatly distorted secondary to prior abdominal surgeries or certain pathologies including endometriosis and congenital abnormalities. Ultrasound cannot easily discriminate between intraperitoneal and retroperitoneal ovarian cysts but is often the only preoperative imaging obtained prior to cystectomy. Thus, many retroperitoneal cysts are found intraoperatively resulting in diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Therefore, general gynecologists must be aware of risk factors associated with abnormal pelvic anatomy and prepared to request intraoperative consultation if needed to ensure optimized patient care and safety.

A Rare Case of Bilateral Retroperitoneal Ovaries: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Introduction: Retroperitoneal gynecologic tumors and cysts are rare. They are often asymptomatic or present similarly to their intraperitoneal counterpart with vague abdominal discomfort and distention. Our literature review revealed that many retroperitoneal cysts are found intraoperatively due to their benign predominance consistent with their ultrasound findings. The rarity of retroperitoneal gynecologic tumors and cysts creates uncertainty regarding the best practice management for general gynecologists caught off guard by their location when found intraoperatively. Rarer still are retroperitoneal ovaries. There are few cases of retroperitoneal ovary displacement in the literature, most often associated with female neonatal incarcerated inguinal hernia repair surgery. We found one case report involving an intraoperatively found retroperitoneal ovarian cystadenofibroma in a patient with a hernia repair performed in infancy. To our knowledge, there are no bilateral retroperitoneal ovaries described in the literature. Objective: To report a rare case of bilateral retroperitoneal ovaries in an 11 year old female. Methods: Case report. Results: We present an 11-year-old female with a past medical history of Dandy-Walker malformation and hydrocephalus status post ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt with six laparoscopic VP shunt revisions who endorsed hirsutism and irregular, heavy, and painful menstrual periods. Her family history is significant for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and Lynch syndrome. Physical exam revealed mild abdominal distention and lower abdominal tenderness. She had an elevated estradiol, luteinizing hormone (LH), and total and free testosterone. Normally, an elevated estradiol causes a negative feedback response that results in a low LH. Due to these abnormal results, a pelvic ultrasound was ordered to rule out a potential estrogen secreting ovarian tumor. Ultrasound revealed a large anechoic structure in the left adnexa not definitively separated from the ovary measuring 13.0 x 7.7 x 10.7 cm. Radiologic differential diagnosis included large simple cyst, hemorrhagic cyst, and serous neoplasm. A referral to an adolescent gynecologist was made where the patient presented five months later with 25-pound weight gain, constipation, and a hard belly. Repeat ultrasound was consistent with a left ovarian simple cyst with an increased size measuring 16.78 x 12.58 x 8.66 cm as well as a new finding consistent with a right ovarian simple cyst measuring 4.96 x 4.48 x 3.61 cm. Due to her history of severe abdominal adhesions secondary to multiple laparoscopic VP shunt revisions, likely endometriosis, and large ovarian cyst, she was referred to a gynecologic oncologist where she was consented for robotic assisted bilateral ovarian cystectomy and lysis of adhesions. In the operating room, extensive pelvic adhesions were lysed to reveal bilateral retroperitoneal ovaries. The right cyst was drained of clear fluid, revealing no internal complexity, and was completely excised. Persistent pelvic adhesions and cyst size prolonged the time required to excise the left ovarian cyst wall. Once open, papillary excrescences were seen inside the cyst raising concern for a borderline ovarian tumor. The decision was made to remove the cyst wall in its entirety regardless of increased risk of ovarian function compromise. Restoration of normal anatomy was not attainable, and her bilateral ovaries remained embedded in the side walls and superior to the iliac vessels. Pathology revealed a benign 8 cm right paratubal cyst and a benign 18 cm left serous cystadenoma with papillary excrescences. Conclusions: Pelvic anatomy can be greatly distorted secondary to prior abdominal surgeries or certain pathologies including endometriosis and congenital abnormalities. Ultrasound cannot easily discriminate between intraperitoneal and retroperitoneal ovarian cysts but is often the only preoperative imaging obtained prior to cystectomy. Thus, many retroperitoneal cysts are found intraoperatively resulting in diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Therefore, general gynecologists must be aware of risk factors associated with abnormal pelvic anatomy and prepared to request intraoperative consultation if needed to ensure optimized patient care and safety.

Intrapleural Migration of Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt due to Negative Intrathoracic Pressure.

Background Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is still a mainstay of treatment in centers for infants with aqueductal stenosis which is the most common cause of congenital obstructive hydrocephalus. Shunt migration remains a common complication. Delayed distal shunt tip migration into the thoracic cavity due to negative intrathoracic pressure is a rare occurrence. Case Presentation Authors report a 1-year-old infant presenting with drowsy sensorium, increasing head circumference, and bulging anterior fontanelle. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed significant obstructive hydrocephalus with periventricular seepage. A large expansile diverticulum of the suprapineal recess extending infratentorially compressing the dorsal midbrain and cerebellum inferiorly. The child underwent an emergency right-side VP shunt (medium pressure) in view of clinical symptoms of raised intracranial pressure. A right iliac fossa infraumbilical transverse incision was taken for placing the abdominal end. Visual confirmation of bowel was done after opening the peritoneum by two operating surgeons prior to inserting the distal catheter. Postoperative course was uneventful. The child presented 3 months later with acute dyspnea and diminished breath sounds on the right hemithorax. Neurologically, the child was active, feeding well, and anterior fontanelle was lax. A chest roentgenogram and computed tomogram (CT) of the thorax revealed complete shunt migration into the pleural space with significant pleural effusion on the right side. The distal shunt system on CT appeared to enter the pleural space below the 8th rib, probably indicating that there was subcostal tunneling of the shunt below the 8th rib space during the first surgery which was inconspicuous and subsequently over a span of 3 months due to sucking effect of negative intrathoracic pressure the shunt gradually migrated into the pleural cavity which led to the effusion. An emergency VP shunt revision was performed. The distal end below the chamber was retunneled subcutaneously into a new incision in the left paraumbilical region. Postoperative chest and abdomen roentgenograms showed resolving effusion and accurate shunt placement. The child required elective ventilation temporarily to tide over the underlying lung collapse and an intercostal tube drainage for the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) hydrothorax for 2 days to aid in quicker weaning. The child was discharged on the 5th postoperative day. Discussion Intrapleural migration of VP shunts has been contemplated to be due to trauma during surgery, migration across foramen of Bochdalek or Morgagni, and negative intrathoracic pressure. Taub and Lavyne have classified thoracic complications of VP shunt as thoracic trauma during shunt tunneling, supradiaphragmatic migration of shunt or transdiaphragmatic migration of shunt, and pleural effusion complicated by CSF ascites. Transdiaphragmatic migration is commonly seen in pediatric population and supradiaphragmatic migration can be seen in any age group. We believe our case to be a type of supradiaphragmatic migration of the shunt which has occurred slowly over a span of time due to the negative intrathoracic pressure. The idea behind this clinical case image is to edify neurosurgeons, pediatricians, and intensivists to remain wary of such a complication.

Abstract PO4-20-11: Excellent Response to Trastuzumab Deruxtecan in “HER-2 Low” Leptomeningeal Breast Cancer and Diagnostic and Monitoring Utility of CNSide Assay

Abstract A 72-year-old female presented to the emergency department with sudden onset of imbalance and cognitive decline. Two years ago, she was diagnosed with stage III estrogen receptor (ER) positive, progesterone receptor (PR) negative and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) negative (immunohistochemistry score: 0) invasive breast cancer. She subsequently underwent lumpectomy, adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy. She had been taking adjuvant letrozole at the time of presentation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain showed obstructive hydrocephalus without any parenchymal lesion or leptomeningeal enhancement. MRI of spine, computerized tomography of chest/abdomen/pelvis and bone scan were unrevealing except a left adrenal mass which was equivocal for metastasis. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis showed rare malignant cells. Based on the morphology of malignant cells and the patient’s prior history of breast cancer, the diagnosis of leptomeningeal disease with breast primary was made. There were insufficient cells for additional studies. CNSide, a microfluidic platform that uses antibody capture method to detect CSF tumor cells, showed 4678 tumor cells per milliliter (ml) of CSF. Immunocytochemistry of these cells showed that the cells were ER negative (criterion: < 2.6% ER positive cells) and programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) negative (criterion: < 3.4% PD-L1 positive cells). Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) testing showed 22% of tumor cells with HER2 amplification (either HER2 to CEP17 ratio >/= 2.0 or HER2 copy number >/= 6). She underwent ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt placement with complete recovery of her neurological symptoms. Five weeks later, she was started on trastuzumab deruxtecan (T-DXd) mainly because of the HER2 FISH results from CNSide. She did not receive central nervous system(CNS) irradiation due to complete resolution of neurological symptoms with VP shunt placement. After two cycles of T-DXd, MRI brain showed mild leptomeningeal enhancement along bilateral superior cerebellar sulci. Positron emission tomography/computed tomography(PET/CT) scan showed a new sclerotic rib focus, thought to represent treatment response. It also showed decrease in size of the adrenal mass. The adrenal mass was hypermetabolic on PET, consistent with malignancy. CSF cytology was negative, while CSF tumor cell count significantly reduced to 6.72 cells/ml using CNSide. There were no new neurological symptoms. Despite MRI brain findings, she was continued on T-DXd given overall favorable clinical, radiological and CSF data. After 7th cycle of T-DXd, repeat CSF cytology continued to remain negative, CNSide CSF tumor cell count decreased further to 6.27 cells/ml, MRI brain showed interval resolution of prior leptomeningeal enhancement, CT scan showed further decrease in size of the adrenal mass (baseline 5.4cm to 3cm), stable rib sclerotic lesion and no additional metastatic lesion. To date, she has undergone eight cycles of T-DXd which has effectively controlled her disease for a period of seven months. She has not needed VP shunt revision and continues to do well. To our knowledge, this is the first case demonstrating the activity of T-DXd against CSF tumor cells where a small subset exhibited HER2 amplification. This case also highlights the benefits of using advanced and highly sensitive CSF assays to diagnose and surveil leptomeningeal disease and to assess HER2 signaling. This case is well-timed especially in the era of next-generation, CNS penetrating, potent HER2-directed antibody-drug conjugate like T-DXd which can mount antitumor activity even with minimal HER2 expression in tumors. Citation Format: Sarah Stanford, Zeni Kharel, Lauryn Hemminger, Tyler Schmidt, Sara Hardy, Jason Zittel, Nimish Mohile, Ajay Dhakal. Excellent Response to Trastuzumab Deruxtecan in “HER-2 Low” Leptomeningeal Breast Cancer and Diagnostic and Monitoring Utility of CNSide Assay [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2023 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2023 Dec 5-9; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(9 Suppl):Abstract nr PO4-20-11.

Utility of intracranial pressure monitoring as a diagnostic tool in pediatric ventriculomegaly

ObjectiveIntracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring is commonly utilized for identifying pathologic ICP in cases of traumatic brain injury; however, its utility in hydrocephalic children has not been elucidated. Although patients with typical (pressure-active) hydrocephalus present with clear signs and/or symptoms and the need for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion is often clear, others may have arrested or pressure-compensated hydrocephalus with pathologic ICP elevation masked by ambiguous signs or are completely asymptomatic. Without treatment these pathologic ICP elevations may affect neurologic development or crescendo over time leading to neurological decline. The purpose of this study is to investigate the utility of ICP monitoring as a diagnostic tool in this relatively common patient population and identify ventriculomegaly patients with and without pathologic ICP, thus improving accuracy of identifying those with and without surgical needs. Methods36 patients (≤ 17 years old) underwent 41 inpatient ICP recording sessions between 2016 and 2022 and were retrospectively reviewed. This included patients with a history of severe, nonprogressive ventriculomegaly and normal fundoscopic examinations lacking traditional signs and symptoms concerning for elevated ICP. Nighttime pathological plateau waves were defined as sustained elevations of ICP ≥ 2x baseline for a duration of ≥ 5 minutes. ResultsThe mean age of patients was 5.5 years old (range 0–17 years old). 46.3% of patients had prior endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV), 14.6% had prior ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS), and 39% were without prior surgical intervention. Roughly half (51.2%) of patients had congenital ventriculomegaly while other patients had ventriculomegaly due to other pathologies such as germinal matrix hemorrhage/intraventricular hemorrhage (GMH/IVH) (29.3%), stroke (4.9%), cerebral infections/meningitis (2.4%), or unknown etiology (12.2%). The average procedure time was 19.1 ± 10.5 minutes, and mean length of stay was 2.8 ± 0.7 days. Pathologic ICP was demonstrated in 12 cases (29.3%), 4 (33.3%) of which were asymptomatic. Pathologic ICP was found in 7 of 19 (36.8%) in the prior ETV group, 1 of 6 (16.7%) in prior shunt group, and 4 of 16 (25%) in the non-surgical group (p = 0.649). Among those with pathologic ICP, 6 (50%) cases received an ETV, 5 (41.7%) cases underwent VPS placement, and 1 (8.3%) case underwent a VPS revision. There were no infectious complications or cases of hemorrhage. 4 patients required repositioning of the ICP monitor due to dislodgement. ConclusionInpatient ICP monitoring is a safe and effective diagnostic tool for evaluating the presence of pathologic ICP in severe, persistent non-progressive ventriculomegaly. The use of ICP monitoring may aid in identifying patients with pressure-compensated hydrocephalus who demonstrate pathologic ICP where surgical intervention may be warranted, while preventing unnecessary CSF diversion in those without pathology.

Mechanical shunt failure in hydrocephalus: a common but remediable complication with technical nuances

BackgroundA ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is a cerebral shunt that diverts excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).Obstruction in the normal outflow or decreased absorption of the fluid is the usual cause. Hydrocephalus is treated by cerebral shunts.In paediatric patients, untreated hydrocephalus can be lethal and leads to many adverse effects including increase irritabilities, chronic headaches, learning difficulties, visual disturbances, and, in more advanced cases, severe mental retardation. Malfunction of the shunt with excess CSF accumulated can increase the intracranial pressure resulting in cerebral oedema and ultimately herniation.ObjectiveTo study and evaluate the mechanical causes of shunt failure and their surgical remedies and reduce the preventable morbidity, cost and mortality associated with shunt failure.MethodsWe conducted a prospective observational study including 70 patients who developed pure mechanical shunt failure for the first time from 2017 to 2020 in the Department of Neurosurgery Sher-i-kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences. Patients with previous shunt surgeries which include VP shunting and shunt revision or failure and shunt infections were excluded. Identity of all the patients has been kept anonymus. Written informed consent was obtained from all patients or their guardians in case of minors. Shunt malfunction was in the form of catheter misplacement, kinking, displacement from the ventricle or peritoneal cavity, disconnection, migration,inadvertent suturing of the catheter, air in shunt bulb.ResultsWe found kinking at the proximal end in 25 (35%) patients as the most common cause of shunt failure. It was mostly as a result of inadequate and less spacious tunnelling made for the reservoir. Inadvertant suturing of shunt while closing abdomen in 7 (10%), shunt disconnection in 6 (8.5%), air in shunt bulb in 2 (2.8%), wrong placement at ventricular end in 10 (14.2%), shunt migration into the brain parenchyma in 5 (7.1%), shunt migration through the anal canal in 1(1.4%), pseudomeningocele around catheter valve in 3 (4.2%), placement of lower end into the preperitoneal space in 4 (5.7%) patients.ConclusionsShunt surgery is seemingly a straightforward operation for neurosurgeons. But considering the incidence of shunt failure and its associated morbidity and mortality, it should always be done with trepidation and extreme caution. Exclusive mechanical shunt malfunction is a major concern and leads to great deal of morbidity in the shunt operations. However, there are trivial remedies and technical nuances which needs to be followed during surgery to avoid these complications.

LAPAROSCOPIC ASSISTED TREATMENT OF HYDROCEPHALUS IN ADULTS: OUR OWN MODIFICATION

Introduction: Laparoscopy has been used as an aid in the placement of abdominal ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts since 1993. Laparoscopic procedures are safe and allow direct visualization of the correct position of the catheter, and confirmation of shunt function. Aim: The aim of this study is to describe our own method of introduction of the distal catheter in the right subdiaphragmatic space using the falciform ligament, which prevents catheter migration, distal obstruction and internal organ damage and compare it with existing literature. Materials and Methods: Data was collected retrospectively for all VP shunt implantations and revisions performed in adults with hydrocephalus during the period November 2011 to November 2020. In all 51 cases of VP shunt insertion, the distal shunt catheter was implanted using our own modification of the laparoscopic method. Results: In total, there were 66 shunt procedures performed during the study period. The majority of procedures (86.3% 57/66) were implantation of a new VP shunt, and 13.6% (9/66) were revision surgeries for replacement of a VP shunt due to catheter occlusion. Median follow up was 2.5 years. Most patients (89.5%, 51/57) underwent laparoscopic surgery. Conclusions: Our modified laparoscopic method shows that this accessible, minimally invasive procedure is beneficial for patients with hydrocephalus and significantly decreases the rate of complications. The laparoscopic falciform technique significantly reduces the rate of distal VP shunt obstruction. The duration of surgery and the risk of infection have been also reduced. In addition, collaboration and simultaneous work of neurosurgeons and general surgeons strengthens companionship between departments.

Preoperative nomogram predicting ventriculoperitoneal shunt longevity after initial shunt failure.

Initial shunt failure following ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt surgery has a significant impact on the working time of the shunt. However, there are few studies regarding factors affecting VP shunt longevity. Hence, in this study, we aimed to build a nomogram to predict the longevity of the replacement VP shunt in patients with initial shunt failure. From 2011 to 2021, 142 patients with initial VP failure who underwent VP shunt revision were enrolled and relevant clinical and demographic factors were analyzed. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to choose predictors, and a nomogram was constructed using nine independent prognostic variables: sex, age, hydrocephalus type, intensive care unit admission, tracheostomy, decompressive craniectomy, craniotomy, lumbar cisterna drainage, and ventricular drainage. The prediction models' discrimination, accuracy, calibration, and clinical value were evaluated using Harrell's C-index, a calibration plot, and decision curve analysis. At 1 month, 3 months, and 5 years, the nomogram's C-index was 0.680, 0.708, and 0.694, respectively. The nomogram's calibration plot provided a good fit for the overall prediction over the course of 1 year. Decision curve analysis predicted that 1-3 months after surgery will yield good net benefits between 30 and 50% probability thresholds. A preoperative nomogram may be an effective tool for assessing VP shunt longevity after initial VP shunt placement.

Percutaneous Ventriculoatrial Shunting as a Salvage Method in the Pediatric Hydrocephalus Patients with Peritoneal Problems.

To evaluate the efficacy of percutaneous ventriculoatrial shunting as a salvage method for pediatric patients with abdominal complications. Data obtained from 9 patients with ventriculoperitoneal shunt dysfunctions owing to abdominal complications, who underwent ventriculoatrial shunting as salvage treatment at a single institution between January 2019 and September 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. All operations were conducted under the guidance of intraoperative fluoroscopy and ultrasound. The mean age of the enrolled patients was 8.1 ± 1.2 years (2-15 years). Six (67%) patients were male and 3 (33%) were female. The mean number of the patients? ventriculoperitoneal shunt revisions until atrial catheter placement was 7.5 times. The reasons for intraperitoneal catheter failure included peritoneal adhesions in 4 (44.5%) patients, pseudocyst formation in 3 (33.3%), and peritonitis in 2 (22.2%). Seven patients from the study cohort had no problem after ventriculoatrial shunt placement. Only 1 patient had shunt dysfunction related to the ventricular catheter, and ventricular catheter and shunt valve revision was performed 26 months after ventriculoatrial shunt placement. The atrial catheter of the patient was intact. One patient died from the progression of her primary disease (medulloblastoma in the 4 < sup > th < /sup > ventricle), which was unrelated to the ventriculoatrial shunt. Percutaneous ventriculoatrial shunting under the guidance of intraoperative fluoroscopy and ultrasound is a safe, effective, and easy alternative in patients with peritoneal complications and a history of multiple operations.

Factors Favouring Laparoscopic over Laparotomy Technique of Vp Shunts: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract Background A systematic review and meta-analysis of studies concerning laparoscopically assisted ventriculo-peritoneal shunt placement. After using selection criteria, a total of 12 studies with 3173 patients were included in the systematic review. Aim of the Work To review, revise and redefine the role of laparoscope in the effectiveness of ventriculo-peritoneal shunt placement in a Meta-analytical form, minimizing procedurel and hospital stay together with postoperative complications in comparison to laparotomy techniques in patients with hydrocephalus and its role in revision of ventriculo-peritoneal shunts. Methods A systematic search was performed using the PubMed, Embase, ScienceDirect, and Cochrane Library databases. A manual search for reference lists was conducted. The protocol was prepared according to the interventional systematic reviews of the Cochrane Handbook, and the article was written on the basis of the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines. Results There was a significant difference in terms of the distal shunt failure rate between the 2 groups, but the significance disappeared when proximal shunt failure was also considered, leaving a non significant trend toward lower overall shunt failure in the laparoscopic compared with the laparotomy group. The results of our meta-analysis clearly show that the laparoscopic technique is a safe, minimally invasive treatment option for the insertion of distal catheters. Laparoscopy can reduce the distal shunt failure rate and length of operation, while not reducing the overall shunt failure, overall infection rate, and length of hospital stay and might not reduce intraoperative complications. Conclusion The results of our meta-analysis clearly show that the laparoscopic technique is a safe, minimally invasive treatment option for the insertion of distal catheters. Laparoscopy can reduce the distal shunt failure rate and length of operation, while not reducing the overall shunt failure, overall infection rate, and length of hospital stay and might not reduce intraoperative complications.

Programmable Versus Differential Pressure Ventriculoperitoneal Shunts for Pediatric Hydrocephalus: A 20-Year Single-Center Experience From Saudi Arabia.

Background Shunt malfunction is the most common complication after ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) insertion for pediatric hydrocephalus. The incidence of shunt malfunction and the need for VPS revision may be related to the type of valve used in the shunt. Therefore, we aimed to compare the outcome of VPS in the pediatric age group stratified by differential pressure valves (DPV) and programmable shunt valves (PSV). Materials and methods This ethics-approved retrospective study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Saudi Arabia. We included 175 children with congenital hydrocephalus who underwent a shunt insertion or revision between 2003 and 2018 and followed them up to December 2022. The VPS complication and revision rates were compared with the patient's demographics and shunt valve types. The Kaplan-Meier method, log-rank test, and univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression were used to analyze several variables and subsequent shunt revisions. Results Females represented 52% of the study participants, and the mean age of the patients was 21.7 ± 38.4 months. The main indication for VPS was congenital hydrocephalus due to aqueductal stenosis (40%). The differential shunt valve was used in 78.9% and the PSVin 21.1% of the patients. Surgical complications occurred in 33.7% of the patients. Shunt malfunction and infection occurred in 16% and 11.4% of the patients, respectively. The VPS revision rate was significantly lower when PSV was used (odds ratio = 0.39, P < 0.05). Conclusion Overall, one-third of the studied pediatric cohort required shunt revision at some point during the 15-year follow-up. However, children with PSV had fewer revision rate-related complications compared to children with DPV during the first five years of follow-up.

DIPG-51. ABDOMINAL METASTASES OF DIFFUSE MIDLINE GLIOMA, H3K27-ALTERED WITH A VENTRICULOPERITONEAL SHUNT

Abstract Extraneural metastases are extremely rare in diffuse midline glioma (DMG), H3K27-altered, despite a tendency toward aggressive local growth and potential neuroaxis dissemination at progression. Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) placement for cerebrospinal fluid diversion is commonly performed in patients with thalamic tumors and increasingly considered in brainstem disease with developing hydrocephalus. Herein, we present a case of DMG seeding the abdomen presumably via the VPS. This patient was diagnosed at 22 years of age with a bithalamic tumor with extension into the brainstem and cerebellum as well as non-contiguous periventricular spread to the bilateral frontal lobes, with associated hydrocephalus. The patient underwent VPS insertion and biopsy, with pathology consistent with DMG, H3K27-altered. Whole exome sequencing revealed H3-3A and TP53 alterations as well as PDGFRA amplification. Treatment consisted of upfront craniospinal photon irradiation, with subsequent reduction in thalamic disease burden. Adjuvant therapy with an oral PDGFRA inhibitor (avapritinib) was initiated, though discontinued after two weeks due to worsening neurocognitive deficits. The patient presented three months post-completion of radiation, five months from diagnosis, and six weeks following VPS revision with rapidly progressive abdominal distension and altered mental status, with imaging demonstrating omental caking and significant malignant ascites, resulting in shunt malfunction and increased intracranial pressure. With limited therapeutic options, the family decided not to pursue further intervention and the patient died five days later. Autopsy confirmed metastatic disease throughout omentum, in addition to diffuse leptomeningeal dissemination. Comprehensive molecular profiling of diagnostic and post-mortem thalamic and omental tissue is in process to assess temporal as well as spatial genomic heterogeneity, including of metastasis-mediated pathways. In summary, abdominal dissemination of DMG, H3K27-altered is uncommon, but possible, especially in the presence of a VPS. Further research is necessary to determine biologic mechanisms and predictors of extraneural metastases in this disease.

Abstract #1408214: Severe Hypernatremia Due to Central Diabetes Insipidus with Adipsia: Challenges in Management

Hypernatremia (serum sodium >145meq/L) is independently associated with increased mortality as high as 40-60%. Mortality correlates with the rapidity of the rise in sodium and the degree of severity. Central Diabetes Insipidus (DI) associated with adipsia pose a unique management challenge, leading to recurrent hospital admissions due to hypernatremia. We report, a patient with Central DI who presented with severe hypernatremia following desmopressin non-compliance and inadequate water intake. A 25-year female with a past history of obstructive hydrocephalous underwent ventriculoperitoneal shunt revision and had a complicated hospital course including new onset Central DI. The patient was discharged on desmopressin and a serum sodium of 148 meq/L. She presented to the hospital 3 days later with altered mentation, dehydration, and a heart rate of 124bmp. Other vital signs were stable. CT head showed no acute intracranial abnormalities. Labs showed: serum sodium 190meq/L, serum osmolality 393mOsm/kg, urine sodium 44mEq/L, and urine osmolality 878mEq/L. She initially received IV isotonic fluid, and IV DDAVP, and later started on hypotonic fluid and oral DDAVP. Labs were monitored every 6 hours. The patient didn’t have a sense of thirst, didn’t like the taste of water, and had a suboptimal response to oral DDAVP. Multiple measures were taken to stabilize her serum sodium: switched to DDAVP Nasal spray, placed alarms on her cell phone as a reminder to drink water, flavored powders were used to make the water palatable, and provided education on the importance of DDAVP, adequate water intake, and outpatient follow-ups. The patient was safely discharged home after demonstrating the ability to maintain normal serum sodium on oral fluid intake and self-administered nasal DDAVP. Thirst is a critical adaptive mechanism to protect against hypernatremia. Intense thirst may be present initially, but it dissipates as hypernatremia progresses and is absent in patients with adipsia. Destruction or improper functioning of osmoreceptors in the hypothalamus that controls the thirst mechanism can result in adipsia; this may result from a congenital malformation or acquired as in the case of stroke, trauma, or infection. It was most likely secondary to multiple intracranial procedures in our patient. This case also highlights cerebral adaptation to chronic hypernatremia. Brain shrinkage is countered by an adaptive response initiated promptly and consists of solute gain (initial uptake of sodium and potassium, followed by the later accumulation of osmolytes; mainly myoinositol and the amino acid glutamine) by the brain that tends to restore lost water. This response leads to the normalization of brain volume and accounts for the milder symptoms of hypernatremia that develops slowly, as seen in this patient. In conclusion, patients with Central DI associated with adipsia can pose a significant management challenge. This case highlights the importance of addressing all the barriers that affect patients’ compliance with DDAVP and ensuring adequate hydration to prevent recurrent hospital admission and associated morbidity and mortality.

Ventriculo-peritoneal shunt obstructions in the absence of radiological abnormalities: retrospective analysis of a pediatric cohort

Introduction: Ventriculoperitoneal shunts are still the mainstay treatment for pediatric&#x0D; hydrocephalus. They have a high complication and failure rate, requiring multiple revisions.&#x0D; In this study, we aim to investigate patients who required shunt replacement without any&#x0D; radiological findings.&#x0D; Methods: The files of patients under the age of 18, who underwent shunt revision between&#x0D; December 2015 and December 2020 in Bursa Uludag University Medical Faculty Neurosurgery clinic were reviewed retrospectively. All the radiological studies, laboratory results and clinical condition of the patients were examined.&#x0D; Results: We identified 127 patients who required a revision of ventriculoperitoneal shunt for suspected mechanical obstruction. 6 patients (5%) had symptoms of raised&#x0D; intracranial pressure, but showed no radiographic evidence of progressive ventricular&#x0D; dilatation.&#x0D; Conclusion: Dysfunction of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt does not always lead to associated radiological alterations. In a patient with signs of intracranial hypertension, revision of the system should be considered even in the absence of progressive ventricular dilatation on radiological studies.

770 Gastrostomy Sequence With Ventriculoperitoneal Shunting—Does it Matter?

INTRODUCTION: Patients who suffer neurologic injury that require ventriculoperitoneal shunt(VPS) placement often also require gastrostomy procedures for feeding access and nutritional support. The timing of these procedures in relation to each other has been debated in the literature, largely steaming from a proposed risk of infection and displacement resulting in a need for revision related to the presence of a gastrostomy. METHODS: In an all-payor database, patients undergoing index gastrostomy procedures and VPS placement between 1/2010-10/2020 were identified. Patients were stratified as undergoing gastrostomy placement before, on the same day as, and following the placement of a shunt. The primary outcome of the study was rates of revision All outcomes were evaluated within 30-months following index-shunting. Patients were matched based upon logistic-regression models that evaluated the independent effects of patient and procedural factors on the primary-outcome. RESULTS: A total of 4,290-patients were identified as undergoing VPS and gastrostomy procedures. Following a 1:1:1-match procedure, 852-patient records were analyzed. Patients undergoing gastrostomy and VPS on the same day or gastrostomy procedures before VPS (Odds Ratio [OR] 0.55, 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 0.33-0.91 vs. OR 0.60, 95% CI 0.36-0.97, respectively) were observed to have significantly lower rates of revision at 30-months following index shunting when compared to those patients who underwent gastrostomy placement after VPS. No significant differences were noted in rates of infection, mechanical complications, g-tube infections, or shunt displacement between the three approaches. CONCLUSIONS: Patients undergoing shunting and gastrostomy tube placement procedures may benefit from undergoing the procedures at the same time as patients undergoing these procedures at the same time are at a decreased risk of repeat requirement for anesthesia reduced rates of VPS revision following observed in comparison to patients undergoing gastrostomy placement after VPS.

Managing Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Exposure in Adult Patients: Surgical Options and Implant Removal Prevention

Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt exposure is rare. Small series reporting on managing this complication mainly focus on the pediatric population, where wound breaks over cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) chambers are observed most frequently. However, case series on adult patients are missing. Between June 2004 and December 2019, 18 patients underwent VP shunt revision due to implant exposure. Pertinent data were retrospectively collected from the hospital database. Their full clinical history, laboratory values, neuroradiological imaging, pretreatment CSF characteristics, photographic and video material, and surgery types were reviewed. The ventricular catheter was exposed in 8 patients (the frontal region in 6 and the occipital region in 2), the valve chamber at the retroauricular region in 6, the shunt tube in 7 (at the neck in 4, the supraclavicular region in 2, and the abdominal incision in 1). Multiple exposure sites were found in 2 cases. Two patients with CSF infections benefitted from system removal and temporary external ventricular drainage until infection control was achieved. The remaining 16 patients underwent on-ward revision (wound curettage, skin mobilisation, and resuture over the exposed part of the shunt), which was effective in 14 patients, but further revision was required in 2 patients. While rare, VP shunt exposure is a serious complication. In our experience, a prompt and accurate on-ward revision could save the implant in most patients without CSF infections.

A standardized infection prevention bundle for reduction of CSF shunt infections in adult ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery performed without antibiotic-impregnated catheters.

Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt insertion and revision surgeries are some of the most common procedures that are performed by neurosurgeons. Shunt infections within the adult population are associated with significant morbidity and mortality and rates remain high. The objective of the current study was to use quality improvement (QI) methodology to create a standardized infection prevention bundle aimed at reducing the rate of shunt infections. A prospective, single-center, single-surgeon QI study was undertaken. Patients were included if they were 18 years of age or older and were undergoing a VP shunt insertion or revision. The primary outcome of the study was the development of a shunt-related surgical site infection, within 1 year of surgery, as defined according to the Canadian Nosocomial Infection Surveillance Program guidelines. There was no standardized protocol prior to July 2013. A bundle coined as the Calgary Adult Shunt Infection Prevention Protocol (CASIPP) was implemented on July 1, 2013, and updated on July 1, 2015, when 2% chlorhexidine gluconate in 70% isopropyl alcohol replaced povidone-iodine for preoperative skin antisepsis. Protocol compliance was regularly monitored using a standardized process. No antibiotic-impregnated catheters were used. A total of 621 consecutive VP shunt insertions and revisions were included in the study. The rate of shunt infection was 5.8% during the period in which there was no standardized shunt protocol. After the implementation of the CASIPP the infection rate decreased to 4.0%, and after introduction of the chlorhexidine/alcohol skin antisepsis, the infection rate was 0% in 379 consecutive procedures (p < 0.0001). Multivariable logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the use of chlorhexidine/alcohol with CASIPP was associated with a significant reduction in the odds of developing a shunt infection (OR 0.032, 95% CI 0-0.19, p = 0.0005). The implementation of a standardized shunt infection prevention bundle within the adult population, without the use of antibiotic-impregnated catheters, significantly reduced the rate of shunt infections which was sustained over many years. The use of 2% chlorhexidine gluconate in 70% isopropyl alcohol for preoperative antisepsis may have played a significant role. Multicenter studies should be completed to verify the effectiveness of the authors' protocol.

Factors affecting ventriculoperitoneal shunt revision: a post hoc analysis of the British Antibiotic and Silver Impregnated Catheter Shunt multicenter randomized controlled trial.

The British Antibiotic and Silver Impregnated Catheter Shunt (BASICS) trial established level I evidence of the superiority of antibiotic-impregnated catheters in the prevention of infection of newly implanted ventriculoperitoneal shunts (VPSs). A wealth of patient, shunt, and surgery-specific data were collected from trial participants beyond that of the prespecified trial objectives. This post hoc analysis of the BASICS survival data explores the impact of patient age, hydrocephalus etiology, catheter type, valve type, and previous external ventricular drain on the risk of infection or mechanical failure. Time to failure was analyzed using Fine and Gray survival regression models for competing risk. Among 1594 participants, 75 patients underwent revision for infection and 323 for mechanical failure. Multivariable analysis demonstrated an increased risk of shunt infection associated with patient ages < 1 month (subdistribution hazard ratio [sHR] 4.48, 95% CI 2.06-9.72; p < 0.001) and 1 month to < 1 year (sHR 2.67, 95% CI 1.27-5.59; p = 0.009), as well as for adults with posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus (sHR 2.75, 95% CI 1.21-6.26; p = 0.016). Age ≥ 65 years was found to be independently associated with reduced infection risk (sHR 0.26, 95% CI 0.10-0.69; p = 0.007). Antibiotic-impregnated catheter use was also associated with reduced infection risk (sHR 0.43, 95% CI 0.22-0.84; p = 0.014). Independent risk factors predisposing to mechanical failure were age < 1 month (sHR 1.51, 95% CI 1.03-2.21; p = 0.032) and 1 month to < 1 year (sHR 1.31, 95% CI 0.95-1.81; p = 0.046). Age ≥ 65 years was demonstrated to be the only independent protective factor against mechanical failure risk (sHR 0.64, 95% CI 0.40-0.94; p = 0.024). Age is the predominant risk for VPS revision for infection and/or mechanical failure, with neonates and infants being the most vulnerable.

Management of ventriculoperitoneal shunt complications in children: A review of 34 cases.

The primary objective of this study was to analyse the demographics of the children who presented with ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) complications. The secondary objectives were to review the clinical characteristics, surgical procedures performed for the management of VPS complications and the final outcome. This is a single-institution observational study that included children below 12 years of age who required VPS revisions during the study period. During the study period of 10 years, n = 336 VPS catheters were implanted for the treatment of hydrocephalus in children. Forty (11.90%) children developed various VPS complications and required VPS revisions in the follow-up period. A total of n = 30 (8.92%) children (n = 21 boys and n = 9 girls) were selected/recruited for the present study, and they required n = 34 revision procedures. The mean interval from VPS insertion to the diagnosis of the complication was 7.29 months. VPS complications that required revisions occurred in the following order of frequency: (1) VPS catheter, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or shunt tract infection n = 8 (2.38%); (2) malfunction of distal VPS catheter n = 7 (2.08%); (3) coiling of distal VPS catheter at abdominal area n = 6 (1.78%); (4) extrusion of VPS catheter n = 5 (1.48%); (5) CSF leak from abdominal wound site/umbilicus n = 4 (1.19%); (6) malfunction of ventricular catheter n = 3 (0.89%) and (7) CSF pseudocyst peritoneal cavity n = 1 (0.29%). Surgical procedures were performed for the treatment of abovementioned complications in the following order of frequency: (1) revision of distal VPS catheter n = 14 (4.16%), (2) removal of entire VPS catheter ± external ventricular drainage (EVD) n = 7 (2.08%), (3) distal VPS catheter converted as EVD n = 6 (1.78%), (4) revision of proximal VPS catheter n = 3 (0.89%), (5) revision of entire VPS catheter n = 3 (0.89%) and (6) CSF pseudocyst excision n = 1 (0.29%). This study also documented n = 2 (6.6%) deaths during the post-operative period. VPS insertion done for the treatment of hydrocephalus in infants and children was associated with various complications. Seventy per cent of the complications occurred within the first 6 months after the VPS insertion. Two-thirds of the complications were related to the distal VPS catheter.

Retrospective analysis of bladder perforation risk in patients after augmentation cystoplasty using an extraperitoneal approach

Initial management of pediatric patients with neurogenic bladder is focused on clean intermittent catheterization and medical therapies. Those with more hostile or small capacity bladders require surgical intervention including bladder augmentation that can result in significant clinical sequelae. This study examines a rarely described approach wherein the bladder reconstruction is extraperitonealized by bringing bowel segments through a peritoneal window and then closed. The aim of this study was to determine if the rate of bladder rupture and subsequent morbidity differed between patients who have undergone an intraperitoneal versus extraperitoneal bladder augmentation. We hypothesized that an extraperitoneal approach reduced the risk of intraperitoneal bladder perforation, downstream Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission, small bowel obstruction (SBO) requiring exploratory laparotomy, and ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt-related difficulties as compared to the standard intraperitoneal technique. A retrospective chart review was conducted to assess surgical approach and outcomes in patients who underwent bladder augmentation performed between January 2009 and June 2021. Patients were identified through an existing database and manual chart review was conducted to extract data through imaging studies, operative notes, and clinical documentation. The primary outcome was bladder perforation. Secondary outcomes were ICU admission, exploratory laparotomy, and VP shunt externalization, infection, or revision for any cause. Nonparametric statistical analyses were performed. A total of 111 patients underwent bladder augmentation with 37 intraperitoneal and 74 extraperitoneal procedures. Median follow up was 5.8 years [IQR 3.0-8.6 years] and did not vary between groups (P=0.67). Only one patient was found to have a bladder perforation in the intraperitoneal group (log-rank P=0.154). There were no significant differences in time to post-augmentation ICU admission, exploratory laparotomy, or VP shunt events between the two groups (log-rank P=0.294, log-rank P=0.832, and log-rank P=0.237, respectively). Furthermore, a Kaplan-Meier analysis assessing time to composite complication demonstrated no significant difference between the two techniques (log-rank P=0.236). This study provides important data comparing the rate of bladder perforation and subsequent morbidity between intraperitoneal and extraperitoneal bladder augmentation. As expected, with a complex procedure, both groups suffered complications, but these data showed no difference between the two procedures. Rates of prior (abdominal) surgery may influence the decision to perform this procedure extraperitoneal. Outcomes related to bladder perforation and secondary consequences do not differ significantly between patients who had bladder augmentation performed with an intraperitoneal versus extraperitoneal approach. Given the low number of adverse events in this study, larger studies are warranted.