Referrals for suspected ventriculo-peritoneal shunt dysfunction and necessity for further imaging

Abstract

Shunt series (SS) X-rays are often performed as additional routine initial investigations for suspected ventriculo-peritoneal shunt dysfunction, despite low diagnostic utility and radiological implications. We reviewed such referrals at our neurosurgical unit and found an 8.3% sensitivity rate for SS; consistent with current evidence. SS should not be performed routinely.

Keywords:

• Shunt series
• shunt dysfunction
• imaging

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article.

Funding

Ammar Natalwala is funded by the Welcome Trust.