Treatment of congenital hydrocephalus in a foal using a ventriculoperitoneal shunt

Authors: Bentz, Bradford G.¹; Moll, H. David²

Source: Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, Volume 18, Number 2, April 2008 , pp. 170-176(7)

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Abstract:

Objective:

The objective of this report is to describe the presentation, diagnostic imaging findings, management, and complications of surgical shunt placement in a foal with congenital hydrocephalus. Case summary:

A 3-day-old Quarter Horse colt was diagnosed with hydrocephalus on the basis of clinical signs and computed tomographic scan. A surgical shunt was placed from the right cerebral ventricle to the peritoneum. The foal demonstrated significant improvement in clinical signs until shunt complications occurred. New or unique information provided:

To the authors' knowledge, the placement of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt to manage equine hydrocephalus has not been described. This case report provides a foundation for understanding the techniques and possible complications of surgical shunt placement in hydrocephalic foals.

Keywords: complications; peritoneal catheter; shunt valve; ventricular catheter

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476-4431.2008.00292.x

Affiliations: 1: McGee Medicine Center, Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Lexington, KY 2: Center for Veterinary Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK

Publication date: 2008-04-01