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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is It Advisable To Visit Doctor When VP Shunt Stop Working?

I have a 12 year old daughter who was diagnosed @ almost age 2 with Medulloblastoma. The tumor was removed & we were told she would not need a VP shunt. 6 mts later she developed hydrocephalus and a shunt was placed. The tip of the shunt has always been very "bouncy" to the touch. Tonight when I pushed on it, it felt hard with very little if any "bounce" at all. Other than complaining of a sore throat and headache (not near the shunt location) she has been pretty normal. My question is; Do you think I need to have her immediately seen by a Dr? Should the shunt always have that "bouncy" feel. My bigges concern is that the shunt has stopped working.
Mon, 18 Aug 2014
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Pediatrician,  's  Response
Thanks for putting up your query at HealthCareMagic. I understand the cause of your concern. A common problem with VP shunts is blockage of the shunt. If it stops working, you should visit your doctor who would be in a better position to judge whether it can worsen the hydrocephalus that is already present. Based on that he might plan placement of another VP shunt.

I hope that helps. Feel free to revert back with further queries if any.
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Is It Advisable To Visit Doctor When VP Shunt Stop Working?

Thanks for putting up your query at HealthCareMagic. I understand the cause of your concern. A common problem with VP shunts is blockage of the shunt. If it stops working, you should visit your doctor who would be in a better position to judge whether it can worsen the hydrocephalus that is already present. Based on that he might plan placement of another VP shunt. I hope that helps. Feel free to revert back with further queries if any.