Published with the inputs from Dr Sivakumar S, Neurosurgeon, Baby Memorial Hospitals-Kozhikode
VP Shunt Placement is a neurosurgical procedure used to treat hydrocephalus, a condition caused by an abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricles (fluid spaces) of the brain. This excess fluid increases pressure inside the skull, which can damage brain tissue.
The VP shunt helps divert the excess fluid from the brain to another part of the body (usually the abdomen), where it can be safely absorbed — thus relieving pressure and preventing further complications.
A VP shunt (ventriculoperitoneal shunt) is a thin, flexible tube system surgically placed in the brain’s ventricles to drain excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) into the abdominal cavity. This helps maintain normal intracranial pressure and prevents brain damage caused by hydrocephalus.
Your doctor may recommend a VP shunt if you have hydrocephalus caused by:
Yes. It is a well-established and commonly performed neurosurgical procedure. When performed by experienced neurosurgeons, complications are rare and manageable. Risks include infection, blockage, or over-drainage, which are minimized through careful technique and modern programmable shunt systems.
A VP shunt can function effectively for many years, even decades. However, some patients may require shunt revision if there’s blockage, infection, or mechanical failure. Routine follow-ups with your neurosurgeon are essential.
If these occur, contact your neurosurgeon immediately for evaluation.
If you or a loved one is diagnosed with hydrocephalus or related neurological symptoms, the Neurosurgery & Neurology Team at Baby Memorial Hospital (BMH) provides advanced VP Shunt Placement procedures using modern programmable shunt systems and state-of-the-art neuroimaging for safe, precise, and long-lasting results.
👉 Book an Appointment Online or visit BMH to consult our expert neurosurgery specialists.