Percutaneous ultrasound-guided insertion of ventriculo-atrial shunts

Ventriculo-atrial (VA) shunts have been in use for >60 years but less frequently so of late. This is due to a combination of the risk of cardiac complications, lack of expertise and a lengthy operation. We present our consecutive prospective series of 10 VA shunts inserted using a percutaneous method employing the Sonowand Invite™ neuronavigation system for both the distal and proximal catheters, over a 13-month period. We had two complications of cases needing revision, but our series highlights a safe and reproducible method of inserting a VA shunt. About 30% of the procedures were carried out by a trainee as the primary surgeon. This technique does not necessarily require the expertise of a complex hydrocephalus surgeon and is thus able to be in the armoury of any neurosurgeon needing to do a VA shunt procedure. The indications, operative data and outcomes of our patients are discussed.