NARRATIVES
TALK TO A
ADVICE
Established April 15, 1995
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Page Q&A Index
5/2008
Submitted by Barbara Dressen and Mary Martinez
Has anyone had their shunt removed from the ventricles in the brain? Why, and what were the results? Any problems after surgery?
Submitted by Zandra Hayes
I had my first aneurysm on September 6, 2006. About 4 weeks later a shunt was installed after it was determined that I had developed hydrocephalus. After two weeks I had an infection for which there were no antibiotics. The infection started at the end of the shunt and was traced to a surgeon who did not properly wash his hands prior to surgery. The shunt was removed and fearing another infection I decided not to have another shunt installed.
I was prescribed Diamox to relieve the fluid buildup and after three years of feeling constantly drugged I asked to be weaned of of the Phenobarbital and the Diamox. Over a three month period of both medications being reduced I was finally drug free. In the interim I had a second aneurysm clipped. It's been over seven years without a shunt or drugs and with the exception of an occasional headache I am fine. I'm currently working two jobs to make ends meet and without me telling them no one would know of my experience as an aneurysm overcomer.
Submitted by Kim Rueffer
Kim has asked that you read the last couple of updates to her narrative. It explains in detail her problems with her shunt and subsequent removal. Kim
Submitted by Angela Ronson
Having a shunt removed is a good thing. They provide drainage. Usually it's a drain from your head to your stomach. I had one while I was in a coma. I think of them like the pipes in my sink. If it's getting removed, then it means your body is now able to do this process on its own.
Question and Answer pages should not be considered as medical advice. It is only a means of communication among survivors
Discussion, comments, or questions: Susan Weinholtz
