Shunt dysfunction and constipation: could there be a link?

A ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is the treatment of choice for hydrocephalus, functioning by means of a pressure differential between the ventricular system and peritoneal cavity. Constipation is frequently a concomitant problem in children with VP shunts. A case study is reported in which signs a...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inThe Journal of neuroscience nursing Vol. 26; no. 2; p. 91
Main Authors Bragg, C L, Edwards-Beckett, J, Eckle, N, Principe, K, Terry, D
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published United States 01.04.1994
Subjects
Child, Preschool
Constipation - complications
Constipation - diagnostic imaging
Constipation - therapy
Female
Humans
Hydrocephalus - complications
Hydrocephalus - surgery
Meningomyelocele - complications
Meningomyelocele - surgery
Nausea - etiology
Postoperative Complications - etiology
Radiography
Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt
Vomiting - etiology
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Summary:A ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is the treatment of choice for hydrocephalus, functioning by means of a pressure differential between the ventricular system and peritoneal cavity. Constipation is frequently a concomitant problem in children with VP shunts. A case study is reported in which signs and symptoms of shunt dysfunction appear to have developed as a result of constipation. Nurses and physicians must address the need for preventing constipation much more aggressively in the population requiring shunts.
ISSN:0888-0395
DOI:10.1097/01376517-199404000-00007