Complications of Ventriculo-peritoneal Shunting: 13 Years of Experience in a Sub-saharan Paediatric Neurosurgery Unit

Abstract

Complications of ventriculoperitoneal shunting in hydrocephalus cure are countless and well known nowadays; depending on several factors. They are all more so screened in children whom are vulnerable and growing; more again in sub-Saharan area, suggesting a close follow-up and a paid attention on family balance. We emphasised on this surgical and social challenge to analyse the experience of a paediatric neurosurgical unit. A retrospective study has been performed to determine statistical data over 13 years of our practice in sub-Saharan hospital area, referring to international recommendations. It was of above 90 complications collected in 62 patients over 302 children operated, 20.52%. Complications were mechanic (58) and infectious (32). The mean age of appearance was 2 years 8 months, with an average of 6 months of follow-up. Malformative aetiologies were of 4 over 5 children, 80.65% and more than half were non-obstructive, 58%. The complications were unique, multiple or associated. The treatment was mainly surgical 88.7% on several modes. Sixteen children deceased during the study period. Post-shunting complications are the source of a compromised functional or even vital prognosis, sometimes in a psychosocial stress or low feel. The challenge in sub-Saharan area remains the efficient management of complications with limited resources or a sociocultural family uncertainty. Perioperative prevention must be the master words.