Programmable CSF shunt valves: radiographic identification and interpretation.
The programmable CSF shunt valve has become an important tool in hydrocephalus treatment, particularly in the NPH population and in pediatric patients with complex hydrocephalus. The purpose of this study is to provide a single reference for the identification of programmable shunt valves and the interpretation of programmable shunt valve settings. Four major manufacturers of programmable shunts agreed to participate in this study. Each provided radiographic images and legends for their appropriate interpretation. Issues of MR imaging compatibility for each valve are also discussed.
Section of Neurosurgery, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire 03756, USA. scott.lollis@hitchcock.org
S Scott
SS
Lollis
A C
AC
Mamourian
T J
TJ
Vaccaro
A-C
AC
Duhaime
D004867:Equipment Design; D057918:Fiducial Markers / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D006849:Hydrocephalus / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery*; D007427:Intracranial Pressure; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D011859:Radiography; D012015:Reference Standards; D012984:Software; D017287:Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards*