What is ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt surgery?

Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt surgery drains extra cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) out of the brain. The extra fluid moves into the belly and is absorbed by the body. This helps control the pressure in the brain so the brain can work as it should.

When too much CSF builds up inside the brain, it's called hydrocephalus. This extra fluid can increase pressure on your baby's brain. It can make your baby's head look larger than normal and make the soft spots on your baby's head feel firm or bulge out.

VP shunt surgery is done in two parts. First, the doctor drills a small hole in your baby’s skull. A thin tube is then placed in the brain's fluid-filled part. Then the doctor threads a thin tube from a cut in your baby’s belly to the chest and neck. The two tubes are then connected with a valve to make a shunt. The shunt allows the fluid to drain into the belly.

Your baby will be asleep during the surgery. It usually takes a few hours. Your baby may need to be in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for several weeks or longer after surgery. Your baby’s doctor will let you know what to expect.

How do you prepare for your baby's surgery?

Surgery can be stressful for both your newborn and you. This information will help you understand what you can expect. And it will help you prepare for your baby’s surgery.

Preparing for surgery

• Your baby will likely be in the NICU before and after the surgery. The NICU staff is a team of specially trained doctors, nurses, and support staff. This team will work with you to help your baby. You can also ask the NICU care team about counselling and support for you and your family.
• You can visit your baby in the NICU. You will need to wash your hands each time you enter the NICU. Depending on your baby's condition, you may also have to wear a mask or disposable gown.
• Plan for your baby’s recovery time. Your baby may be in the NICU for several weeks or longer after surgery.
• Understand exactly what surgery is planned, along with the risks, benefits, and other options.

What to expect in the NICU

• You may see wires attached to your baby. The wires are connected to machines that help the doctor keep track of your baby's vital signs.
• If your baby has trouble breathing, the doctor may use a ventilator. This machine helps your baby breathe. To do this, the doctor puts a soft tube through your baby's mouth and into the windpipe.
• Your baby may need oxygen. It is given through a tube in the baby's nose or throat.
• Your baby may be fed through a soft tube that goes through their nose and into the stomach. Or your baby may have an intravenous (I.V.) line that goes through the belly button.
• It may seem that your baby is getting lots of tests. All of these tests help the doctor keep track of your baby's condition and give the best treatment possible.

The day before surgery

• A nurse may contact you (or you may need to contact the hospital). This is to confirm the time and date of your baby’s surgery and answer any questions.

What happens on the day of surgery?

• A parent or legal guardian must be in the hospital on the day of your baby’s surgery.
• Your baby will be kept comfortable and safe by an anesthesia provider. Your baby will be asleep during the surgery.
• The surgery usually takes a few hours.
• After surgery, your baby will be taken to a recovery room or to the NICU to recover. As your baby wakes up, the care team will monitor your baby’s condition. The doctor will talk to you about the surgery.

When should you contact your doctor?

• You have questions or concerns.
• You need to reschedule or have changed your mind about your baby having the surgery.