Ventriculoperitoneal shunt induced neck mass mimicking sternocleidomastoid tumour: a previously unreported complication

Abstract

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) for hydrocephalus is associated with various complications. Torticollis due to shunt tract fibrosis is a rare complication of VPS that occurs years later after the initial operation. However, shunt track fibrosis that progressed to large neck mass, mimicking sternocleidomastoid tumour and causing torticollis is a previously unreported complication. This led to the restriction of neck movement and hemifacial hypoplasia. Complete excision of the mass restored neck movement.

Keywords: head and neck surgery; neurosurgery; paediatric surgery.