A single-incision laparoscopic technique for retrieval and replacement of disconnected ventriculoperitoneal shunt tubing found in the peritoneum.

A 7-year-old girl presented with signs and symptoms of increased intracranial pressure 2 years after insertion of a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt. Evaluation revealed disconnection of the distal shunt catheter and migration into the peritoneal cavity. A single-incision laparoscopic procedure was performed to locate and remove the disconnected shunt tubing, and the new shunt catheter was inserted through the laparoscopic port site. Laparoscopy is being used more frequently for evaluation and repair of distal VP shunt malfunctions, but generally still requires multiple incisions for port placement and insertion of the new shunt catheter. The single-incision technique used here is technically feasible, allows excellent visualization of the peritoneal cavity and does not require any incisions beyond the previous one used for initial shunt insertion. Copyright 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel