Türk Nöroşirürji Dergisi 2021 , Vol 31 , Num 1
Shunt Infections
S. Meltem CAN1
1Şişli Hamidiye Etfal Eğitim ve Araştırma Hastanesi, Şişli, İstanbul, Türkiye The most common and serious complication of shunt operations is infection. Its occurrence rates are variable in different series that were published. They can lead to high mortality and morbidity rates. Its treatment is high cost. Unless cured effectively at early period, they may result in deficits adversely affecting the quality of life, besides mortality. It is more common in children younger than 1 year-old. Most infections occur in the first 6 months after surgery. The most common isolated agent is Staphylococcus epidermidis. Skepticism of the relevant physician is important in diagnosis. Shunt removal, external ventricular drainage and reinsertion of a new shunt after the treatment of infection is the most effective method. It is possible to reduce the rate of infection with simple precautions. The aim of this review is to summary the topic in the light of current literature. Anahtar Kelimeler : Hydrocephalus, Infection, Ventriculer shunt