MediAI

  Introduction Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VP shunt) is the most widely used neurosurgical intervention for the management of hydrocephalus , a pathological condition characterized by excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the cerebral ventricles. This accumulation leads to progressive ventricular dilatation, elevated intracranial pressure (ICP), and potential irreversible brain injury if left untreated. The clinical success of VP shunt placement depends on accurate diagnosis, meticulous surgical technique, vigilant postoperative monitoring, and prompt detection of complications. Radiologic evaluation plays a pivotal role throughout this process, from initial diagnosis to long-term surveillance. This article provides a comprehensive, state-of-the-art expert review of VP shunts, including pathophysiology, epidemiology, clinical presentation, imaging features, differential diagnosis, diagnostic strategies, treatment, prognosis , and high-yield exam questions...