CSF shunts play a vital role in diverting excess cerebrospinal fluid to other body compartments, thereby preventing potentially life-threatening complications. This presentation aims to provide a comprehensive overview of CSF shunt systems and their evaluation using multimodal imaging techniques. We will briefly review the various types of CSF shunts and their essential components. The discussion will also cover imaging protocols and MRI safety considerations for patients with shunts, with a focus on what clinicians need to see in imaging reports. Additionally, special emphasis will be placed on shunt-related complications, such as shunt malfunctions (e.g., disconnections, migration, leakage and overdrainage); over-shunting myelopathy (Miyazaki syndrome); slit ventricle syndrome; trapped ventricle; infections (ventriculitis, meningitis); and distal catheter complications (e.g., peritoneal CSF pseudocysts with and without infection, peritonitis, pleural effusions). Read More

Meeting name: SPR 2025 Annual Meeting , 2025

Authors: Hoodeshenas Safa, Averill Lauren, Mody Tejal, Johnson Craig

Keywords: Shunts, CSF, Hydrocephalus