A Rare Case of Delayed Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Catheter Migration Into the Heart: A Case Report.

Abstract

The treatment of hydrocephalus with a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt can lead to complications such as shunt migration. A 67-year-old male, who had previously undergone VP shunt surgery for normal-pressure hydrocephalus, presented approximately five years later with symptoms of general weakness and abdominal pain. Imaging revealed shunt malpositioning, with the catheter passing through an abnormal route to the heart. The catheter was successfully removed under fluoroscopic guidance while monitoring patient's electrocardiogram to prevent potential secondary complications. Although rare, cardiac migration of VP shunts can lead to life-threatening secondary complications. Our case highlights the possibility of delayed upward migration of the shunt catheter in patients with VP shunts, emphasizing the need for various strategies to address and manage this issue.