Shunt Procedure
A shunt procedure is a type of brain tumor surgery often used to treat the buildup of fluid in cavities deep within the brain (hydrocephalus). In a healthy individual, a clear, watery liquid called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) circulates throughout the brain and spine, acting as a cushion to protect delicate tissues. When the natural flow of CSF is blocked by a brain tumor, excess fluid may accumulate inside the skull and put pressure on the brain. Hydrocephalus can cause severe headaches, nausea, blurred vision and neurological complications. A CSF shunt procedure can help relieve pressure on the brain by redirecting the fluid to another area of the body, where it can be absorbed safely.
Because the shunt procedure does not directly treat the brain tumor, it may be performed in combination with other treatments, such as surgical tumor removal, radiation therapy or chemotherapy. In some cases, hydrocephalus develops after brain tumor surgery, making shunt placement necessary either at the time of tumor removal or later on.
What does a CSF shunt procedure involve?
During the procedure, a neurosurgeon will create a small opening in the skull and carefully position one end of a thin, flexible tube (shunt) in a fluid-filled chamber of the brain (ventricle). The neurosurgeon will then tunnel the tubing under the skin to another part of the body, most often the abdomen, where the fluid can drain and be reabsorbed naturally.
A built-in valve in the shunt can help regulate the flow of CSF to prevent too much or too little drainage. A cerebrospinal fluid shunt procedure usually takes several hours and is performed under general anesthesia. Most patients remain in the hospital for a few days afterward so the surgical team can ensure the shunt is functioning properly.
Who is a candidate for shunt placement?
Not every patient with a brain tumor requires a shunt. In general, a shunt procedure for hydrocephalus may be appropriate for a patient who is experiencing:
- Fluid buildup in the brain due to a tumor blockage
- Hydrocephalus that developed after brain tumor removal
- Chronic headaches, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision or difficulty walking and balancing
To determine whether the patient is a good candidate for a hydrocephalus shunt procedure, the medical team will perform a comprehensive neurological examination and evaluate imaging studies, such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans.
What are the benefits of a shunt procedure?
The primary benefit of CSF shunt placement is relief from dangerous pressure on the brain caused by hydrocephalus. After a shunt procedure, many patients experience:
- Reduced headaches, nausea and vomiting
- Improved vision, balance and coordination
- Better focus, concentration and memory
- Lower risk of brain damage due to untreated fluid buildup
In addition to stabilizing the symptoms of hydrocephalus and enhancing the patient’s quality of life, a shunt placement may allow the patient to better tolerate additional brain tumor treatments.
Preparing for hydrocephalus shunt surgery
Preparation for a shunt procedure usually includes a medication review, lab work and imaging scans. The patient may be advised to:
- Pause certain drugs, such as blood thinners, which could interfere with anesthesia or healing
- Refrain from eating and drinking for several hours before the procedure
- Arrange for help at home during the initial recovery period
Discussing any concerns with the healthcare team beforehand can help the patient feel more confident and prepared for hydrocephalus surgery.
What to expect after shunt placement
After CSF shunt surgery, the patient will remain in the hospital for several days of inpatient monitoring. The healthcare team will periodically check the incision sites, confirm the function of the shunt and provide pain management if needed. Many patients experience relief from their hydrocephalus symptoms soon after the procedure, although the improvement may be gradual in some cases.
Long-term follow-up care will be important to ensure the shunt continues to operate correctly. Over time, adjustments or a replacement may be needed, but many patients can live comfortably for years with a functioning shunt.
What are the risks and potential complications of a CSF shunt procedure?
As with any surgery, a shunt procedure carries certain risks, such as:
- Infection at the incision or along the shunt pathway
- Shunt malfunction due to a blockage or valve issue
- Over-drainage or under-drainage of fluid
- Bleeding around the brain (rare)
The patient should report any new or recurring symptoms promptly so their healthcare team can evaluate and address any issues right away.
Benefit from world-class hydrocephalus treatment at Moffitt Cancer Center
Moffitt is a high-volume cancer center, and our neurosurgeons perform thousands of brain and skull base surgeries each year, including shunt surgery for hydrocephalus. In many cases, the CSF shunt procedure is incorporated into a comprehensive brain tumor treatment plan. In addition to the latest surgical techniques, our patients benefit from individualized care designed to help them achieve the best possible outcome and quality of life.
If you would like to learn more about the shunt procedure and other brain tumor treatment options, you can request an appointment with a specialist at Moffitt by calling 1-888-663-3488 or submitting a new patient registration form online. We do not require referrals.