Migration of Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt to the Uterus in a Child: A Case Report

J Pediatr Adolesc Gynecol. 2022 Apr;35(2):196-198. doi: 10.1016/j.jpag.2021.11.004. Epub 2021 Nov 26.

Abstract

Background: A ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) is usually placed inside the peritoneal cavity for cerebrospinal fluid drainage. Rarely, it can migrate to various pelvic visceral organs. Inside the pelvis, the distal end of the shunt can perforate anywhere from the uterus or adnexa to the vulva, and migration through the uterus is extremely rare.

Case: A three-and-a-half-year-old girl presented with a cerebrospinal fluid leak through the vagina after uterine perforation by a VPS. The diagnosis was made with an ultrasound. Her symptoms resolved after revision surgery.

Conclusion: In a patient with a VPS in situ, presenting with a watery fluid leak through the vagina, perforation of the fornix or uterus must always be kept in mind. Timely diagnosis and intervention can result in the prevention of complications.

Keywords: Shunt migration; Uterine perforation; Ventriculoperitoneal shunt.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hydrocephalus* / etiology
  • Hydrocephalus* / surgery
  • Pelvis
  • Reoperation
  • Uterus / diagnostic imaging
  • Uterus / surgery
  • Vagina / surgery
  • Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt* / adverse effects