Migration of a Ventriculo-peritoneal Shunt into the Scrotum

Scrotal migration of peritoneal end of ventriculoperitoneal shunt in an infant - A rare entity

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt migration into the scrotum is a rare phenomenon that has been reported in nearly 35 patients in the literature till date. Genitalia-related complications of ventriculoperitoneal shunts in children like inguinoscrotal migration usually occur during 1st year of the shunt procedure due to factors like raised abdominal pressure and patency of process vaginalis. We report a case of scrotal migration of tip of ventriculoperitoneal shunt in a 2-month-old infant presenting to us with communicating hydrocephalus. In a patient with inguinoscrotal swelling and ventriculoperitoneal shunt, migration of shunt should be suspected. Prompt diagnosis and management of this condition is important due to various complications like shunt dysfunction and testicular lesions. Treatment of this condition is surgical closure of the patent processes vaginalis and shunt reposition.

Migration of Distal End of VP Shunt into the Scrotum: A Management Review

Ventriculo-peritoneal (VP) shunt is the typical and most common procedure for the treatment of hydrocephalus. Many complications have been associated with VP shunts, migration of the distal end of the VP tube into the scrotum is a rare one. We report the presentation and management of a case of 3 month age infant who had scrotal swelling primarily diagnosed as hydrocele. Investigations proved the presence of shunt migration. The possibility of shunt migration should be considered. Early diagnosis and management of such complications is easy and can prevent subsequent serious sequelae.