Cardioversion-Responsive Ventriculoatrial Shunt Malfunction Precipitated by Atrial Fibrillation

Abstract

Background: Ventriculoatrial shunts are common alternatives for patients who cannot tolerate ventriculoperitoneal shunts. The majority of ventriculoatrial shunt malfunctions are related to mechanical problems. We report an interesting case of ventriculoatrial shunt malfunction due to elevated central venous pressure from new-onset atrial fibrillation.

Methods: After the patient was confirmed to have ventriculomegaly, he was taken to the operating room for exploration of his ventriculoatrial shunt; there were no obstructions. Subsequently, the patient was cardioverted to normal sinus rhythm for his new onset atrial fibrillation.

Results: The clinical syndrome and ventriculomegaly both resolved after the patient's atrial fibrillation was corrected with chemical cardioversion.

Conclusions: The cause of this patient's VA shunt malfunction was likely associated with his new onset atrial fibrillation.

Keywords: Atrial-fibrillation; Cardioversion; Ventriculoatrial shunt; Ventriculoatrial shunt malfunction.