What are the chances of dying from a shunt revision?

Question

I have a peritoneal shunt and I had it revised like 4 months ago, and I think it is clogged or something again. I do not want to go through with the stupid surgery again! But do you know the chances of dying from the revision?... I'm 17, and I hateeee thiss. I hate being in a hospital! I just don't want the whole thing done all over again..

Answer 1

I shall presume that you are having a lumbar-piritoneal shunt revision. As you are probably aware, the objective of the original procedure is the establishment of a pathway for drainage that by-passes the ventricular drainage system. You should have been informed that there are specific hazards with this type of surgery. There are other problems that could arise, but I shall not discuss them at this time. You should be made aware that Revision (re-operation for removal or adjustment or one or all components) of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt system is one of the most common procedures done by neurosurgeons. The prognosis depends on the condition for which the patient was shunted and their neurologic status at the time of operation. You would be advised to proceed with this procedure, it is done to preserve your life. If you have any questions or doubts, you would be advised to consult your neurosurgeon for any further medical information of this procedure.
I add a link with some details of Hydrocephalus

http://www.answers.com/
topic/hydrocephalus?
cat=health

Hope this helps
matador 89

Answer 2

Hi,

I'm 41 and I've had a shunt since I was six months old (V-P since 1978, V-A before that). Shunt revisions suck, no doubt about it. But they are safe, albeit complicated. I won't scare you with how many revisions I've had but I came through all of them safely. I haven't heard of anyone dying from the surgery. Actually, it hurts so bad to have it clogged the surgery is a welcome relief. I usually leave the hospital after about three days. But make sure that a clogged shunt really is the problem because it's not something you want to undergo unless you need it.

Answer 3

You have to do the revision, or you'll die. The risk of surgery is lower than the risk of waiting, so you should opt for surgery.

Answer 4

ok, time to grow up and face the reality of your situation. without that shunt in operation you will be a whole lot more unhappy than you are right now. medicine and treatment is not perfect, anymore than the human body is perfect, but hon, whatever the problems are that face us, we have to deal with them or deal with the consequences. So, stop whining, grow up, and deal with your problem in a mature fashion.