EVALUATING THE OUTCOMES OF VENTRICULOPERITONEAL SHUNT SURGERY IN PATIENTS WITH HYDROCEPHALUS

Abstract

Background: Hydrocephalus is a major cause of neurological morbidity and long-term disability worldwide. Evaluating surgical outcomes and identifying post-operative complication predictors can optimize patient selection, improve shunt survival, and refine clinical management. Objectives: To assess the clinical outcome of VP shunt surgery in hydrocephalus patient by assessing recovery status and surgical complications. Methodology: A Retrospective observational study was conducted on 102 patient with hydrocephalus. Data on type of shunt, type of hydrocephalus, Evan’s ratio and pre and post operative outcomes were analyzed using SPSS version 27.0.1 for descriptive statistics and chi-square test Results: A total of 102 patients were operated on with VP shunting for the treatment of hydrocephalus. Females made up 52.9% and males comprised 47.1% of the study subjects. Pre-operative symptoms commonly reported included vomiting (69.6%), headaches (65.7%) and gait problems (54.9%). Hydrocephalus of congenital origin was the most prevalent form (42.2%). After surgery, 85 (83.3%) of patients exhibited early clinical improvement. Post-operative complications included shunt infection (16.7%), shunt malfunction (15.7%), over-drainage (13.7%) and abdominal complication (8.8%). There was a statistically significant relationship between hydrocephalus severity and type of hydrocephalus (p = 0.002) Conclusion: Venturiculo peritoneal shunt is a successful treatment for hydrocephalus and results in quick neurological improvement and intracranial pressure control. However, shunt infection, mechanical failure, over drainage and abdominal complications continue to be major obstacles to long term success. Early detection, strict infection control, regular follow up and advanced shunt technologies can improve outcomes and decrease revision surgeries.