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 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.
Bragg
C L
CL
Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio 43205.
Edwards-Beckett
J
J
Eckle
N
N
Principe
K
K
Terry
D
D
D002675:Child, Preschool; D003248:Constipation / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006849:Hydrocephalus / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery*; D008591:Meningomyelocele / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery*; D009325:Nausea / Q000209:etiology*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000209:etiology*; D011859:Radiography; D017287:Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt; D014839:Vomiting / Q000209:etiology*