title: Calcium deposits on CSF shunts. Clinical observations and ultrastructural analysis.
abstract: CSF shunts removed from seven patients 5-12 years after placement were studied. Examination in each case revealed gritty mineral deposits adherent to the external surface. The deposits were further analyzed by routine histology, spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. These results and the clinical consequences of this calcification are discussed. Microdefects in the tubing may contribute to delayed calcification of Silastic shunt tubing.
mesh_terms: D002114:Calcinosis / Q000473:pathology*; D002557:Cerebrospinal Fluid Shunts / Q000295:instrumentation*; D002648:Child; D006325:Heart Atria; D006801:Humans; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D010529:Peritoneal Cavity; D012826:Silicone Elastomers
chemical_list: D012826:Silicone Elastomers