What are the symptoms of shunt malfunction in hydrocephalus?

[Holly]

Hydrocephalus is a build-up of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the head because of a blockage to the flow or drainage. Approximately 80% of people with Spina Bifida have hydrocephalus that requires a shunt or other treatment. The symptoms of shunt malfunction are varied and can be confusing for both families and health care providers. The most common symptoms are headaches, nausea, and vomiting. Less common symptoms of shunt malfunction can include seizures, a significant change in intellect, school performance, or personality. The symptoms of shunt malfunction can be difficult to spot. You should visit a doctor if you notice any major change without an obvious cause to find out if it is caused by a shunt malfunction. All patients with hydrocephalus should be evaluated by a neurosurgeon at least every 1-2 years.

For more information on this question and other related topics, SBA offers a series of fact sheets (http://www.sbaa.org/site/lookup.asp?c=liKWL7PLLrF&b=2642343) and publications. Additional questions or requests for information should be sent to the SBA National Resource Center (http://www.sbaa.org/site/lookup.asp?c=liKWL7PLLrF&b=2644753).

[lolathechecker]

how often do they usually malfunction? ive heard they clog alot, but its only a 30 minute surgery to fix and you can go home the next day. is that right?

[Barb]

That is right. It is different in everyone. C had his first one at 4 months. At two, he had a shunt revision and he is 9 now and has not had to have this one removed since. It is not so much that they clog but they fail to function. The new programmable ones have made a big difference in the amount of revisions. We are happy to have one,

[kali]

just curious when a shunt clogs what do they do? replace the shunt or just clean it out? I am just curious becasue a friend of mine sons (6 years old)has been really sick with headaches and mood changes, and can barely use his hands. they were told it was a clog in the shunt. they operated to clear the clog. (they went in through the stomache) after the operation there has been no improvement, he still has the same symptons. He has been like this for more then a month.
my heart breaks when I think of him

[Barb]

Sounds like he needs an actual revision, where they replace the shunt. I have never talked to anyone who had it 'unclogged', only replaced. When C has pressure problems, he can't open his hands either. Do they have access to a programmable shunt there?

[kali]

that was my thought, when I heard he had his shunt unclogged, I never heard or read about that procedure before. in the end it was an unsuccessful operation. I was also thought from the begining he needed it to be replaced. as for programmable shunts I havent heard about them here . my son just has a regular shunt that is suppose to grow with you (tubing) and we have been very blessed not to have any problems since birth.