Factors causing acute shunt infection. Computer analysis of 1174 operations

Investigating the types of microorganisms causing cerebrospinal fluid shunt infection in King Abdullah University Hospital in Jordan

Background

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) placement treats hydrocephalus by draining excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Despite advances, infections remain a common complication, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality. Infection rates range from 7.2 to 18%, with common pathogens being Staphylococcus epidermidis and Staphylococcus aureus. Risk factors include young age, postoperative CSF leakage, prolonged surgery, and previous infections. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of CSF shunt infections at King Abdullah University Hospital (KAUH), assess infection rates in pediatric and adult patients, and report causative microorganisms.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on all patients with CSF shunt-related infections in our hospital (KAUH) over the last 17 years (2005-2023). The patients' demographics, laboratory results, and details of causative microorganisms were collected.

Results

Of the 579 patients who underwent CSF shunting at KAUH in Jordan, 59 (10.1%) had a positive CSF culture for shunt infection. The majority of the patients were children (83.1%) with a median age of 9 months and a higher proportion of male patients (57.6%). Most of the infections were due to congenital anomalies (74.6%). The median time to infection was 13 days, with 13.5% experiencing recurrent infections. Recurrent infection rates were found to be significantly higher in pediatric patients (p = 0.00007). The most common pathogens were Acinetobacter baumannii (47.5%) and Staphylococcus species (40.7%). Analysis by age group showed a significant association between age and Acinetobacter baumannii infections (p = 0.008).

Conclusion

The study provided demographic and microbiological data on VPS infections, with Acinetobacter baumannii being the most common causative organism. Treatment of these infections remains challenging, highlighting the need for more comparative research on different treatment options.

Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt Surgery in Pediatrics: Does Preoperative Skin Antisepsis with Chlorhexidine/Alcohol Reduce Postoperative Shunt Infection Rate?

BACKGROUND

 In pediatrics, shunt infection is considered the most common complication of ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt insertion and the main cause of shunt failure. Careful surgical technique and hygienic skin preparations are highly important for prevention of shunt infections. Our objective was to assess the significance of using preoperative chlorhexidine/alcohol as a skin antiseptic in reducing the infection rate in pediatric VP shunts surgery.

METHODS

 We conducted a retrospective, case control study of 80 pediatric patients with active hydrocephalus. The control group (a single step of preoperative skin antisepsis using povidone-iodine and isopropyl alcohol) comprised 40 patients who underwent a shunt surgery between January 2019 and June 2020 and the study group (two steps of preoperative skin antisepsis using 2% chlorhexidine gluconate in 70% isopropyl alcohol as a first step followed by povidone-iodine as a second step) comprised 40 patients who underwent a shunt surgery between July 2020 and January 2022.

RESULTS

 Shunt infection was encountered in 11 (13.7%) patients. It was significantly higher in preterm babies (p = 0.010), patients with a previous shunt revision (p < 0.001), and those with a previous shunt infection (p < 0.001). The incidence of infection was 22.5% in the control group and 5% in study group, with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.023).

CONCLUSIONS

 Two steps of preoperative skin antisepsis, first using chlorhexidine/alcohol and then povidone-iodine scrub solution, may significantly reduce the infection rate in pediatric VP shunt surgeries.

Evaluation of ventriculoperitoneal shunt infections and risk factors in children

INTRODUCTION

To evaluate the demographic, clinical, diagnostic, and treatment data of pediatric patients with ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection and risk factors for ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection and recurrence of ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection.

METHODS

Patients aged 0-18 years who were diagnosed with ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection at Cukurova University Faculty of Medicine Hospital between 2016 and 2021 were included in the study. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, and treatment data of the patients were evaluated retrospectively. Risk factors for the development and recurrence of ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection were evaluated. Patients who underwent ventriculoperitoneal shunt but did not develop any shunt infection were selected as the control group.

RESULTS

Eighty-five patients with a diagnosis of ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection were included in the study. Fever (58.8%), anorexia (58.8%), vomiting (56.5%), and altered consciousness (54.1%) were the most common complaints at admission. The control group consisted of 48 patients. The number of shunt revisions was statistically significantly higher in the group that developed ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection compared to the control group (p < 0.001). In patients with ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection, C-reactive protein and cerebrospinal fluid protein values before shunt insertion were found to be statistically significantly higher than the control group (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection occurs most frequently in the first months after shunt application. Therefore, it is extremely important to prevent colonization and contamination during surgery in preventing the development of ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection. In the present study, cerebrospinal fluid protein elevation and C-reactive protein elevation before shunt application were found to be significant in terms of the development and recurrence of ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection.

Factors affecting ventriculoperitoneal shunt revision: a post hoc analysis of the British Antibiotic and Silver Impregnated Catheter Shunt multicenter randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

The British Antibiotic and Silver Impregnated Catheter Shunt (BASICS) trial established level I evidence of the superiority of antibiotic-impregnated catheters in the prevention of infection of newly implanted ventriculoperitoneal shunts (VPSs). A wealth of patient, shunt, and surgery-specific data were collected from trial participants beyond that of the prespecified trial objectives.

METHODS

This post hoc analysis of the BASICS survival data explores the impact of patient age, hydrocephalus etiology, catheter type, valve type, and previous external ventricular drain on the risk of infection or mechanical failure. Time to failure was analyzed using Fine and Gray survival regression models for competing risk.

RESULTS

Among 1594 participants, 75 patients underwent revision for infection and 323 for mechanical failure. Multivariable analysis demonstrated an increased risk of shunt infection associated with patient ages < 1 month (subdistribution hazard ratio [sHR] 4.48, 95% CI 2.06-9.72; p < 0.001) and 1 month to < 1 year (sHR 2.67, 95% CI 1.27-5.59; p = 0.009), as well as for adults with posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus (sHR 2.75, 95% CI 1.21-6.26; p = 0.016). Age ≥ 65 years was found to be independently associated with reduced infection risk (sHR 0.26, 95% CI 0.10-0.69; p = 0.007). Antibiotic-impregnated catheter use was also associated with reduced infection risk (sHR 0.43, 95% CI 0.22-0.84; p = 0.014). Independent risk factors predisposing to mechanical failure were age < 1 month (sHR 1.51, 95% CI 1.03-2.21; p = 0.032) and 1 month to < 1 year (sHR 1.31, 95% CI 0.95-1.81; p = 0.046). Age ≥ 65 years was demonstrated to be the only independent protective factor against mechanical failure risk (sHR 0.64, 95% CI 0.40-0.94; p = 0.024).

CONCLUSIONS

Age is the predominant risk for VPS revision for infection and/or mechanical failure, with neonates and infants being the most vulnerable.

Surgical drain induced subgaleal hematomas and skin necrosis in pediatrics: a case report

INTRODUCTION

Subgaleal drainage is often being used in craniotomy procedures. It's not only offers advantages but also carries a risk of life-threatening complications. Here, we present a rare case of subgaleal hematoma and skin necrosis caused by placement of subgaleal drainage in a pediatric patient after a craniotomy procedure.

CASE REPORT

We reported a 6-months-old child who came to our institution complaining of uncontrolled eye movements which occurred 4 months earlier. From the CT scan and MRI, it was found that the patient had a mass in his suprasellar region, which suggested a suprasellar tumor. She underwent a mass resection procedure, but unfortunately, 3 days after the surgical procedure, the wound appeared necrotic, with a blackish color around the drain. The necrotic wound was suspected due to vacuum subgaleal drain placement. The wound was cleaned and the suture removed, but the necrotic area was still there. Four days after the surgery, the patient clinical condition got worse. After 17 days of treatment with no significant improvement, unfortunately, the patient died.

DISCUSSION

The mechanism of subgaleal hematoma and skin necrosis induced by the Redon drain possibly related to mechanical compression by the drain, which damage perforating vessels and subsequently disrupt skin vascularization, combined with vascular stasis as given by negative pressure of the drain. This induced skin ischemia lesion which later contributes the necrotic formation.

CONCLUSION

The subgaleal hematoma and skin necrosis as a complication of subgaleal redon drain in pediatric are rare phenomenon and likely under reported. The possible underlying mechanism was that drain's negative pressure disrupt subgaleal tissue and induce necrotic formation. Even the complication is rare compared to older children, yet it has been linked to an increased risk for infection, morbidity, and mortality.

Cerebrospinal Fluid System Infection in Children with Cancer: A Retrospective Analysis over 14 Years in a Major European Pediatric Cancer Center

Infection of a cerebrospinal fluid system is a serious medical complication. We performed a retrospective monocentric analysis on temporary and permanent cerebrospinal fluid devices in children with and without cancer, covering a period of over 14 years. Between 2004 and 2017, 275 children with a cerebrospinal fluid system were seen at our institution. Thirty-eight children suffered from 51 microbiologically proven infectious episodes of the cerebrospinal fluid system (12 children with cancer and 26 children without cancer). Independently of the cerebrospinal fluid system used, the incidence of infection did not significantly differ between children with and without cancer and was the highest in children younger than one year. Infection occurred earlier in external ventricular drain (EVD) than ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt, and in EVD significantly earlier in children with cancer compared with patients without cancer. The pathogens isolated were mainly Gram-positive bacteria, in particular Staphylococcus spp., which should be taken into account for empirical antimicrobial therapy.

Lumbar-peritoneal shunt for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus and secondary normal pressure hydrocephalus

Objectives:

Normal-pressure hydrocephalus is a clinical syndrome consisting of dilated cerebral ventricles with the clinical triad of gait disturbance, cognitive impairment and/or urinary dysfunction. Lumbar-peritoneal (LP) shunt could improve idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) while its effectiveness on secondary NPH (sNPH) is elusive. We compared the clinical results of the patients who received LP shunt surgery between iNPH and sNPH.

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed the patients who received LP shunt surgery in a single center from January 1, 2017, to June 30, 2017. Patients selected for LP shunt placement had at least two of three cardinal symptoms of iNPH. The symptoms should persist for more than 3 months with compatible brain magnetic resonance imaging findings. All patients were followed up with iNPH grading scale (iNPHGS) and Modified Rankin Scale (MRS) for evaluation.

Results:

Thirty-three patients (23 male and 10 female patients) with mean age 76-year-old completed follow-up in this study, and 17 patients received lumbar drainage tests and intracranial pressure measurements. Both iNPH (n = 22) and sNPH (n = 11) groups did not have major complications such as infection, nerve root injury, or shunt failure. Both groups have significant improvement in iNPHGS and MRS. Interestingly, we found the correlation between both opening intracranial pressure and pressure gradient difference to the improvement percentage from LP shunt.

Conclusion:

The safety and effectiveness for sNPH patients who received LP shunt placement are equivalent to the iNPH patients. Lumbar drainage test provides prerequisite outcome prediction and should be considered to identify NPH patients planned to receive LP shunt.

Decadron, Diamox, and Zantac: A Novel Combination for Ventricular Shunt Failure in Pediatric Neurosurgical Patients

OBJECTIVE

Cerebral ventricular shunt failure is common and presents with symptoms that range from headaches to death. The combination of Diamox (acetazolamide), Decadron (dexamethasone), and Zantac (ranitidine) (DDZ) is used at our institution to medically stabilize pediatric patients presenting with symptomatic shunt failure before shunt revision. We describe our experience of this drug combination as a temporizing measure to decrease symptoms associated with shunt failure.

METHODS

We performed a single-center retrospective chart review of patients younger than 18 years with ventricular shunt failure who underwent a shunt revision between January 2015 to October 2017 and received DDZ before surgery. The outcome variables evaluated included pre-DDZ and post-DDZ clinical symptoms, pain scores, and vital signs.

RESULTS

There were 112 cases that received DDZ before shunt revision. The 4 most commonly reported symptoms were analyzed. Headache was observed in 42 cases pre-DDZ, and post-DDZ there was a 71% reduction in headache (P < 0.0001); emesis was reported pre-DDZ in 76 cases, and post-DDZ there was an 83% reduction (P < 0.0001); irritability was noted pre-DDZ in 30 cases, and post-DDZ there was a 77% reduction (P = 0.0003); lethargy pre-DDZ was observed in 60 cases, and post-DDZ 73% demonstrated improvement (P < 0.0001). Maximum pain scores significantly decreased post-DDZ (P < 0.0001). Heart rate, systolic, and diastolic blood pressures significantly decreased post-DDZ (P < 0.0001, P < 0.0001, P = 0.0002, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of Decadron, Diamox, and Zantac is a novel treatment for ventricular shunt failure that may temporarily improve symptoms in patients awaiting shunt revision. Future studies could compare efficacy with other medical treatments.

Brucella Shunt Infection Complicated by Peritonitis: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Brucellosis is an endemic zoonotic disease in the Mediterranean basin and Middle East. The disease remains a diagnostic challenge due to an increasing trend of ambiguous and non-specific manifestations. We report a rare case of a 9-year-old boy who had a left frontotemporal arachnoid cyst with cystoperitoneal shunt who presented with fever for 2 weeks with gastrointestinal symptoms. He had no neurological manifestations. Diagnosis of Brucella shunt infection complicated with a peritoneal collection was established by isolation of the organism from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture. Successful treatment was accomplished by shunt replacement and intravenous antibiotics followed by step-down oral therapy for an 18-month duration based on serological and radiological responses with no sequelae. We also reviewed the reported cases of CSF shunt infection in the literature for further guidance. Brucella shunt infection may be difficult to diagnose due to the diversity of signs and symptoms and the low yield on culture. Brucellosis should be always kept in mind in the differential diagnosis of patients living in endemic area with fever and non-specific symptoms. Diagnosis depends on a high index of suspicion. In addition to drug therapy, device replacement is advised to prevent treatment failure.

A comparison between flow-regulated and adjustable valves used in hydrocephalus during infancy

INTRODUCTION

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt insertion during the neonatal period and early infancy is associated with a high rate of shunt failure when compared to the adult population. Furthermore, the function of flow-regulated valves and differential pressure valves may be different in neonatal hydrocephalus.

METHODS

A retrospective case series of all primary shunt procedures carried out during or immediately following the neonatal period, from August 2011 to February 2018 at Sheffield Children's Hospital. The total sample size was 55. This included 34 patients with adjustable valves (Miethke ProGav) and 21 with flow-regulated valves (Orbis-Sigma); however, only 53 had adequate follow-up.

RESULTS

The overall 1 year shunt survival was 34% (18/53), and there was no significant difference depending on which shunt valve was implanted. The primary shunt infection rate was 11% (6/53) with S. aureus being the most common causative organism. During the first year of life, clinical signs of shunt overdrainage were seen more frequently in patients with adjustable valves than in those with flow-regulated valves (59% [19/32] versus 24% [5/21], p = 0.02). Furthermore, 2 patients in the adjustable valve group developed sagittal craniosynostosis secondary to shunt overdrainage.

CONCLUSION

Shunt failure is high when inserted during or immediately following the neonatal period. Overdrainage may be less common in patients with flow-regulated valves. However, if overdrainage is observed, adjusting the setting of a differential pressure valve can effectively treat the overdrainage without the need for invasive shunt revision surgery.

Safety of co-placement of ventriculoperitoneal shunt and percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy

Background

There is little evidence about the safety of co-placement of percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy in patients with ventriculoperitoneal shunt.

Purpose

To investigate the safety of co-placement of percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy tube and ventriculoperitoneal shunt.

Material and Methods

Between July 2006 and June 2018, 1015 patients underwent percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy placement at our institution. Those who had undergone both ventriculoperitoneal shunt and percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy placement were selected. Patient data, including baseline characteristics, percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy types, temporal relationship between the procedures, and ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection, were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Nineteen patients received percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy and ventriculoperitoneal shunt co-placement. The percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy types were pigtail-retained gastrostomy (n = 12) and pull-type gastrostomy (n = 7). Ventriculoperitoneal shunt was placed before percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy in 15 patients (79%) and vice versa in four patients (21%). Mean interval between the two procedures was 361 days (range 3–1833 days). Only one case (5.3%) of ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection occurred and it was successfully managed conservatively. There was no significant difference in the incidence of complications between the ventriculoperitoneal shunt before percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy group and the opposite group ( P = 0.789). Moreover, there was no significant difference in complication rates between the two gastrostomy catheter types ( P = 0.368).

Conclusions

Co-placement of percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy and ventriculoperitoneal shunt seems safe and should not be considered a contraindication. Moreover, the percutaneous radiologic gastrostomy and ventriculoperitoneal shunt should be placed as far from each other as possible.

Ventriculitis Caused by Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria in a Medical Intensive Care Unit with Limited Resources

The widespread use of various devices in the diagnosis or treatment of critically ill neurological patients has led to the more frequent appearance of a new group of meningitis and ventriculitis caused by resistant Gram-negative bacteria or staphylococci. In literature, it has been labeled as health care-associated meningitis and ventriculitis. In our clinical practice (in resource-limited countries), we still have any viable experience neither in the application of these diagnostic and therapeutic tools nor in the handling of complications resulting from their use. However, we have had positive results with the help of the existing guidelines and advice from colleagues in the region (through a video consultation model) while also respecting other factors that reflect our work environment.

2017 Infectious Diseases Society of America's Clinical Practice Guidelines for Healthcare-Associated Ventriculitis and Meningitis

The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) Standards and Practice Guidelines Committee collaborated with partner organizations to convene a panel of 10 experts on healthcare-associated ventriculitis and meningitis. The panel represented pediatric and adult specialists in the field of infectious diseases and represented other organizations whose members care for patients with healthcare-associated ventriculitis and meningitis (American Academy of Neurology, American Association of Neurological Surgeons, and Neurocritical Care Society). The panel reviewed articles based on literature reviews, review articles and book chapters, evaluated the evidence and drafted recommendations. Questions were reviewed and approved by panel members. Subcategories were included for some questions based on specific populations of patients who may develop healthcare-associated ventriculitis and meningitis after the following procedures or situations: cerebrospinal fluid shunts, cerebrospinal fluid drains, implantation of intrathecal infusion pumps, implantation of deep brain stimulation hardware, and general neurosurgery and head trauma. Recommendations were followed by the strength of the recommendation and the quality of the evidence supporting the recommendation. Many recommendations, however, were based on expert opinion because rigorous clinical data are not available. These guidelines represent a practical and useful approach to assist practicing clinicians in the management of these challenging infections.

Predicting ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection in children with hydrocephalus using artificial neural network

OBJECTIVES

The relationships between shunt infection and predictive factors have not been previously investigated using Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model. The aim of this study was to develop an ANN model to predict shunt infection in a group of children with shunted hydrocephalus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Among more than 800 ventriculoperitoneal shunt procedures which had been performed between April 2000 and April 2011, 68 patients with shunt infection and 80 controls that fulfilled a set of meticulous inclusion/exclusion criteria were consecutively enrolled. Univariate analysis was performed for a long list of risk factors, and those with p value < 0.2 were used to create ANN and logistic regression (LR) models.

RESULTS

Five variables including birth weight, age at the first shunting, shunt revision, prematurity, and myelomeningocele were significantly associated with shunt infection via univariate analysis, and two other variables (intraventricular hemorrhage and coincided infections) had a p value of less than 0.2. Using these seven input variables, ANN and LR models predicted shunt infection with an accuracy of 83.1 % (AUC; 91.98 %, 95 % CI) and 55.7 % (AUC; 76.5, 95 % CI), respectively. The contribution of the factors in the predictive performance of ANN in descending order was history of shunt revision, low birth weight (under 2000 g), history of prematurity, the age at the first shunt procedure, history of intraventricular hemorrhage, history of myelomeningocele, and coinfection.

CONCLUSION

The findings show that artificial neural networks can predict shunt infection with a high level of accuracy in children with shunted hydrocephalus. Also, the contribution of different risk factors in the prediction of shunt infection can be determined using the trained network.

Ventriculoatrial Shunts in Adults, Incidence of Infection, and Significant Risk Factors: A Single-Center Experience

BACKGROUND

In recent years, the number of ventriculoatrial (VA) shunt insertions has decreased worldwide, the major cause being the risk of shunt infection. VA shunts remain as an alternative option to ventriculoperitoneal shunts. We describe our 10-year experience with VA shunts by analyzing the incidence of shunt infections and predisposing cofactors.

METHODS

During a median follow-up of 15.3 months, 259 shunt insertions, performed on 255 patients, were analyzed. The infection rate was calculated and the predisposing cofactors age, gender, cause of the hydrocephalus, previous external ventricle drainage, antibiotic-impregnated catheters, the number of revisions, the educational level of the surgeons, and the duration of the operations were analyzed. Two observation times were stratified.

RESULTS

We found overall infections in 18 patients (7.1%), 16 deep infections (6.3%) including 1 shunt nephritis (0.4%) and 2 superficial infections (0.8%). Wound dehiscence occurred in 17 patients (6. 6%). Analyzing follow-up time, the infection rate was 3.65% (95% confidence interval, 0.9%-5.9%) at survival time 1, 3.38% (95% confidence interval, 1.1%-6.2%) at survival time 2. In the first 6 months, 95% of patients were free of infection. Only the number of revision procedures was associated with the number of infections (P value < 0.0005).

CONCLUSIONS

In our patient cohort, the infection rate related to VA shunt insertion is low; the only statistically significant risk factor was the number of revisions. If the VA shunt is applied following a standardized protocol, the infection risk does not represent an argument for reluctance towards the VA draining concept.

Hydrogel-coated ventricular catheters for high-risk patients receiving ventricular peritoneum shunt

Shunt infection is a morbid complication of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunting. The catheters with a hydrophilic surface may impede bacterial adherence and thereby reduce catheter-related CSF infection.A retrospective study compared the occurrence of CSF infection related to use of either standard silastic catheters or hydrogel-coated ventricular catheters (Bioglide, Medtronic). The enrolment was available to neurosurgery patients undergoing shunt surgery from October 2012 to 2015 in two centers. The follow-up period was more than months.A total of 78 patients were included in the study. In 33 patients 35-cm hydrogel-coated ventricular peritoneum shunts (VPS) were used, and in remaining 45 patients 35-cm standard silastic VPS catheters were used. Infection occurred in 14 (17.9%) patients, including definite VPS-related CSF infection in 6 patients (7.7%) and probable infection in remaining 8 patients (10.3%). There was a significant difference found in patients with total infection between the two groups [RR (95% CI); 0.200 (0.050-0.803), P = 0.014]. Analysis of Kaplan-Meier curve estimates indicated significant statistical difference between the two catheter types in duration (log rank = 4.204, P < 0.05). Significant statistical differences were also found in the subgroups including previous CSF infection within 1 month (log rank = 4.391, P = 0.04), conversion of external ventricular drains to shunt (Log Rank = 4.520, P = 0.03), and hospital stay >1 month (log rank = 5.252, P = 0.02). There was no difference found between the two groups of the patients with other infections within 1 month. The follow-up period was of 36 months.The hydrogel-coated catheter is a safe and related to lower infection rates for high-risk patients who underwent shunt surgery.

Reduction in CSF shunt infection over a 10-year period associated with the application of concentrated topical antibiotic powder directly to surgical wounds prior to closure

OBJECT

The application of concentrated topical antibiotic powder directly to surgical wounds has been associated with a reduction in wound infection in cardiac, spinal, and deep brain stimulator surgery. As a result of these findings, the corresponding author began systematically applying concentrated bacitracin powder directly to wounds during shunt surgery more than 5 years ago. The object of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of concentrated bacitracin powder applied directly to wounds prior to closure during cranial shunt surgery and to evaluate the association between shunt infection and other risk factors. A single surgeon's cranial shunt surgery experience, equally divided between periods during which antibiotic powder was and was not applied, was studied to assess the effect of concentrated bacitracin powder application on shunt infection rates.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included all patients who underwent a cranial shunting procedure at All Children's Hospital performed by a single surgeon (G.F.T.) from 2001 to 2013. The surgeon applied bacitracin powder to all shunt wounds prior to closure between 2008 and 2013, whereas no antibiotic powder was applied to wounds prior to 2008. Both initial and revision shunting procedures were included, and all procedures were performed at a large children's hospital (All Children's Hospital). The primary outcome measure was shunt infection, which was defined using clinical criteria previously used by the Hydrocephalus Clinical Research Network. The association between bacitracin powder use and shunt infection was estimated using hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% CIs from Cox proportional hazard regression models.

RESULTS

A total of 47 infections out of 539 shunt operations occurred during the study period, resulting in an overall infection rate of 8.7%. Procedures performed before the use of concentrated bacitracin powder was instituted resulted in a 13% infection rate, whereas procedures performed after systematic use of bacitracin powder had been adopted experienced a 1% infection rate. Bacitracin powder use was associated with a reduced risk of shunt infection in univariate analysis (HR 0.11, 95% CI 0.03-0.34, p = 0.0002) and also in multivariate analysis (HR 0.12, 95% CI 0.04-0.41, p = 0.0006) when controlling for covariates that were associated with infection from the univariate analysis. The presence of a tracheostomy or a gastrostomy tube was also found to be independently associated with shunt infection in multivariate analysis (HR 3.15, 95% CI 1.05-9.50, p = 0.04, and HR 2.82, 95% CI 1.33-5.96, p = 0.007, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests, for the first time, that the systematic application of concentrated bacitracin powder to surgical wounds prior to closure during shunt surgery may be associated with a reduction in cranial shunt infection. This initial finding requires validation in a large prospective study before widespread application can be advocated.

Antibiotic-impregnated catheters reduce ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection rate in high-risk newborns and infants

PURPOSE

The incidence of ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt infection accounts for about 5-15%, but it can rise up to 70% in specific high-risk subgroups. Antibiotic-impregnated catheters (AICs) have been designed to reduce shunt infections, but reports on their efficacy are discordant, especially in young children. The aim of this study is to assess, for the first time, the efficacy of AICs in newborns and infants at very high risk for shunt infection.

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of newborns and infants treated with a VP shunt for newly diagnosed hydrocephalus. Patients were divided in two groups: Group A was composed by children who received AICs, whereas Group B included children implanted with standard silicone catheters (non-AICs). We compared the shunt infection rate in both groups, and analyzed differences in specific high-risk subgroups (preterm newborns, children with posthemorrhagic or postinfective hydrocephalus, and children with a previous external ventricular drainage).

RESULTS

Forty eight children younger than 1 year old were included in our study. Twenty two patients were implanted with an AIC, whereas 26 patients received a standard silicone catheter. The follow-up was at least 1 year (mean 8 ± 3 years). The overall infection rate decreased from 34% in non-AIC group to 9 % in the AIC group. Moreover, AICs showed to have a protective effect against shunt infections in all the specific high-risk subgroups analyzed.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates for the first time that AICs are effective in reducing VP shunt infection in high-risk pediatric patients younger than 1 year old.

Analysis of the potential risk of central intravenous lines and/or total parenteral nutrition with ventriculoatrial shunts

OBJECT

The distal catheter of a ventriculoatrial (VA) cerebrospinal fluid shunt is potentially exposed to bacterial seeding from a subclavian central line. The risk of blood stream infections (BSIs) from central lines increases with administration of total parenteral nutrition (TPN). The potential risks of shunt malfunction or infection in patients with a VA shunt and a concurrent subclavian central line and/or TPN administration have not been studied.

METHODS

A retrospective review of 49 pediatric patients with placement of a VA shunt was performed. Three outcome measures were studied: shunt malfunction, shunt infection, and bacteremia/fungemia requiring shunt removal. All outcomes were measured by 1 year after shunt insertion. We analyzed the following potential risk factors: age at shunt insertion, prior ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt, prior shunt infection, abdominal infection/necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), concurrent subclavian central line, and administration of TPN. The association between each risk factor and outcome was evaluated using Fisher's exact test to generate the relative risk. Additionally, a logistic regression analysis was performed to evaluate the odds ratio of the outcomes to risk factors considering age as a covariate.

RESULTS

The average age at shunt insertion was 6.3 ± 7.6 years. The most common diagnosis was posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus of prematurity (53.1 %). Fifteen patients (30.1 %) had a shunt malfunction within 1 year, 6 (12.2 %) had a shunt infection, and 3 (6.1 %) required removal of the shunt due to bacteremia/fungemia. The age at shunt insertion was not a statistically significant independent risk factor for any of the three outcomes. Prior shunt infection predicted an increased risk for both future shunt malfunction and infection in both the associative relative risk analysis and the age-dependent logistic regression analysis, although the correlation did not reach statistical significance. The presence of a subclavian central line or TPN administration did not statistically increase the risk over baseline for any of the outcomes in either analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

The relatively small number of patients limits the power of the study. Considering this limitation, the data suggests that the presence of a concurrent subclavian central line or administration of TPN does not increase the risk of shunt malfunction or infection over the baseline of this high-risk cohort.

Comparative effectiveness of antibiotic-impregnated shunt catheters in the treatment of adult and pediatric hydrocephalus: analysis of 12,589 consecutive cases from 287 US hospital systems

OBJECT

The real-world effectiveness of antibiotic-impregnated shunt catheters to reduce the incidence of shunt infections is still debated. The literature to date consists mostly of small, single-institution studies. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence of infection for antibiotic-impregnated catheters (AICs) versus standard shunt catheters in a large nationwide administrative database.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed hospital discharge and billing records from the Premier Perspective Database from April 2003 to July 2009 to identify all adult and pediatric patients undergoing de novo ventricular shunt placement. The primary end point was the incidence of shunt infection within 1 year of implantation. Multivariate logistical regression was performed to determine factors associated with increased incidence of infection.

RESULTS

A total of 10,819 adult (AIC, 963; standard catheter, 9856) and 1770 pediatric (AIC, 229; standard catheter, 1541) patients underwent ventricular shunt placement in 287 US hospitals. Overall, the incidence of infection was 3.5% in adults (n=380) and 6.6% in pediatric patients (n=116). AICs were associated with significant reduction in infection for both adult (2.2% vs 3.6%, p=0.02) and pediatric (2.6% vs 7.1%, p<0.01) patients. AIC use was associated with reduced infection regardless of hospital size, annual shunt volume, hospital location, or patient risk factors and remained associated with a reduced infection in multivariate analysis for both adult (p=0.02) and pediatric (p=0.02) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of antibiotic-impregnated shunt catheters was associated with a reduction in shunt infections for both adult and pediatric patients. This provides further support that AICs may represent a reliable means of reducing shunt infections for both adult and pediatric patients.

Propionibacterium acnes: an underestimated pathogen in implant-associated infections

The role of Propionibacterium acnes in acne and in a wide range of inflammatory diseases is well established. However, P. acnes is also responsible for infections involving implants. Prolonged aerobic and anaerobic agar cultures for 14 days and broth cultures increase the detection rate. In this paper, we review the pathogenic role of P. acnes in implant-associated infections such as prosthetic joints, cardiac devices, breast implants, intraocular lenses, neurosurgical devices, and spine implants. The management of severe infections caused by P. acnes involves a combination of antimicrobial and surgical treatment (often removal of the device). Intravenous penicillin G and ceftriaxone are the first choice for serious infections, with vancomycin and daptomycin as alternatives, and amoxicillin, rifampicin, clindamycin, tetracycline, and levofloxacin for oral treatment. Sonication of explanted prosthetic material improves the diagnosis of implant-associated infections. Molecular methods may further increase the sensitivity of P. acnes detection. Coating of implants with antimicrobial substances could avoid or limit colonization of the surface and thereby reduce the risk of biofilm formation during severe infections. Our understanding of the role of P. acnes in human diseases will likely continue to increase as new associations and pathogenic mechanisms are discovered.

Outcome of ventriculoperitoneal shunt implantation for treatment of congenital internal hydrocephalus in dogs and cats: 36 cases (2001-2009)

OBJECTIVE

To examine outcome data for cats and dogs with congenital internal hydrocephalus following treatment via ventriculoperitoneal shunting to determine treatment-associated changes in neurologic signs, the nature and incidence of postoperative complications, and survival time.

DESIGN

Retrospective multicenter case series.

ANIMALS

30 dogs and 6 cats with congenital internal hydrocephalus (confirmed via CT or MRI).

PROCEDURES

Medical records for dogs and cats with internal hydrocephalus that underwent unilateral ventriculoperitoneal shunt implantation from 2001 through 2009 were evaluated. Data collected included the nature and incidence of postoperative complications, change in clinical signs following surgery, and survival time. To compare pre- and postoperative signs, 2-way frequency tables were analyzed with a 1-sided exact McNemar test.

RESULTS

8 of 36 (22%) animals developed postoperative complications, including shunt malfunction, shunt infection, and seizure events. Three dogs underwent shunt revision surgery. Thirteen (36%) animals died as a result of hydrocephalus-related complications or were euthanized. Following shunt implantation, clinical signs resolved in 7 dogs and 2 cats; overall, 26 (72%) animals had an improvement of clinical signs. After 18 months, 20 animals were alive, and the longest follow-up period was 9.5 years. Most deaths and complications occurred in the first 3 months after shunt placement.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Results indicated that ventriculoperitoneal shunt implantation is a viable option for treatment of dogs or cats with congenital hydrocephalus. Because complications are most likely to develop in the first 3 months after surgery, repeated neurologic and imaging evaluations are warranted during this period.

Shunt infection in the first year of life

OBJECT

Children younger than 1 year of age are unique in their physiology and comorbidities. Reports in the literature suggest that the risk factors for shunt infection may be different in this population compared with older children. Importantly, these infants often have other congenital malformations requiring various surgical interventions, which impose an additional risk of infection.

METHODS

In the 3-year period between 2008 and 2010, 270 patients underwent initial CSF shunt placement during the 1st year of life. Clinical characteristics, hospital course, and shunt infections were prospectively recorded in the practice and hospital electronic medical record. Special attention was given to types and timing of other invasive procedures and their relationship with shunt infection.

RESULTS

The average gestational age was 33.6 weeks, and the average birth weight was 2333 g. The average weight at the time of shunt insertion was 4281 g. Prior to shunt insertion, 120 patients underwent 148 surgical procedures, including ventricular access device insertion (n = 63), myelomeningocele closure (n = 37), and cardiac procedures (n = 11), among others. In the 12-month period after shunt insertion, 121 of the 270 patients underwent 135 surgical procedures, which included 79 CSF shunt revisions. Shunt infection occurred in 22 patients, and organisms were identified in 20 cases. Univariate analysis showed that of the very prematurely born infants (gestational age < 30 weeks), those who underwent preshunt cardiac surgery and any surgical procedures within 30 days after the shunt insertion were at a greater risk of shunt infection. In multivariate analysis, preshunt cardiac surgery and surgical procedures within 30 days postshunt placement were significant risk factors independent of gestational age, birth weight, and history of shunt revisions.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study suggest that surgical procedures within 30 days after shunt insertion and preshunt cardiac surgery are associated with a greater risk of shunt infection in children in whom these devices were inserted during the 1st year of life.

Pediatric hydrocephalus outcomes: a review

The outcome of pediatric hydrocephalus, including surgical complications, neurological sequelae and academic achievement, has been the matter of many studies. However, much uncertainty remains, regarding the very long-term and social outcome, and the determinants of complications and clinical outcome. In this paper, we review the different facets of outcome, including surgical outcome (shunt failure, infection and independence, and complications of endoscopy), clinical outcome (neurological, sensory, cognitive sequels, epilepsy), schooling and social integration. We then provide a brief review of the English-language literature and highlighting selected studies that provide information on the outcome and sequelae of pediatric hydrocephalus, and the impact of predictive variables on outcome. Mortality caused by hydrocephalus and its treatments is between 0 and 3%, depending on the duration of follow-up. Shunt event-free survival (EFS) is about 70% at one year and 40% at ten years. The EFS after endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) appears better but likely benefits from selection bias and long-term figures are not available. Shunt infection affects between 5 and 8% of surgeries, and 15 to 30% of patients according to the duration of follow-up. Shunt independence can be achieved in 3 to 9% of patients, but the definition of this varies. Broad variations in the prevalence of cognitive sequelae, affecting 12 to 50% of children, and difficulties at school, affecting between 20 and 60%, attest of disparities among studies in their clinical evaluation. Epilepsy, affecting 6 to 30% of patients, has a serious impact on outcome. In adulthood, social integration is poor in a substantial number of patients but data are sparse. Few controlled prospective studies exist regarding hydrocephalus outcomes; in their absence, largely retrospective studies must be used to evaluate the long-term consequences of hydrocephalus and its treatments. This review aims to help to establish the current state of knowledge and to identify conflicting data and unanswered questions, in order to direct future studies.

Revision surgeries are associated with significant increased risk of subsequent cerebrospinal fluid shunt infection

BACKGROUND

The object of this study was to determine whether cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunt revision(s) are associated with increased risk of CSF shunt infection, after adjusting for baseline factors that contribute to infection risk.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of 579 children aged 0-18 years who underwent initial CSF shunt placement between January 01, 1997 and October 12, 2006 at a tertiary care children's hospital. The outcome of interest was CSF shunt infection. Data for all subsequent CSF shunt revisions leading up to and including the initial CSF shunt infection, when applicable, were obtained. The likelihood of infection was determined using a Cox proportional hazard model accounting for patient characteristics and CSF shunt revisions, and is reported using hazard ratios (HR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

RESULTS

There were 123 children who developed infection. Baseline factors independently associated with hazard of infection included age 0 to <6 months at CSF shunt placement (HR 2.4, 95% CI: 1.02-6.7) and myelomeningocele (HR 0.4, 95% CI: 0.2-0.8). Controlling for baseline factors, the risk of infection after shunt revision was significantly greater than at the time of initial placement (HR 3.0, 95% CI: 1.9-4.7), and this risk increased as numbers of revisions increased (≥2 revisions HR 6.5, 95% CI: 3.6-11.4).

CONCLUSIONS

Although younger age is associated with increased hazard of infection, subsequent CSF shunt revision significantly increases infection risk.

[Antibiotic-impregnated catheters. A useful tool against infection]

Progress in the treatment of hydrocephalus and particularly of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion surgery has been continuous and significant from cranial bandaging, which was one of the initial hydrocephalus treatments in the 16th century, to last-generation CSF shunts. However, infection currently remains the most frequent and serious complication despite the efforts made to prevent it. One of these current prevention measures is the use of antibiotic-impregnated catheters. A retrospective cohort study including shunts and external ventricular drains was designed to assess their efficacy in our scenario. The results show that rifampicin- and clindamycin-impregnated catheters are a helpful tool against CSF shunt-derived infection.

Risk factors for recurrent shunt infections in children

Risk factors for recurrent shunt-related cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) infections were analyzed. A total of 58 children were treated for initial shunt infections (ISI): all children were treated with antibiotics and CSF drainage, either by removal of the shunt system and insertion of an external ventricular drainage (EVD) catheter (44 children, 75.9%) or by externalization of the existing ventricular catheter (14 children, 24.1%). Recurrent shunt infections (RSI) were detected in 15 children: nine had been treated with shunt removal and insertion of a new EVD catheter and six had been treated with externalization of the existing ventricular catheter. There was a statistically significant increase in the number of RSI in children treated with externalization of the existing ventricular catheter. Thus, to reduce the risk of RSI, total shunt removal and insertion of a new EVD catheter is preferred.

Association of intraventricular hemorrhage secondary to prematurity with cerebrospinal fluid shunt surgery in the first year following initial shunt placement

OBJECT

The neurosurgical literature has conflicting findings regarding the association between indications for CSF shunt placement and subsequent shunt surgery. The object of this study was to identify baseline factors at the time of initial CSF shunt placement that are independently associated with subsequent surgery.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of children ages 0-18 years who underwent initial CSF shunt placement between January 1, 1997, and October 12, 2006, at a tertiary care children's hospital. The outcome of interest was CSF shunt surgery (either for revision or infection) within 12 months after initial placement. Associations between subsequent CSF shunt surgery and indication for the initial shunt, adjusting for patient age and surgeon factors at the time of initial placement, were estimated using multivariate logistic regression. Medical and surgical decisions, which varied according to surgeon, were examined separately in a univariate analysis.

RESULTS

Of the 554 children in the study cohort, 233 (42%) underwent subsequent CSF shunt surgery, either for revision (167 patients [30%]) or infection (66 patients [12%]). In multivariate logistic regression modeling, significant risk factors for subsequent CSF shunt surgery included (compared with aqueductal stenosis) intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) secondary to prematurity (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 2.2, 95% CI 1.1-4.5) and other unusual indications (AOR 3.7, 95% CI 1.0-13.6). The patient's age at initial CSF shunt placement was not significantly associated with increased odds of subsequent surgery after adjusting for other associated factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The occurrence of IVH is associated with increased odds of subsequent CSF shunt surgery within 12 months after shunt placement. Families of and care providers for children with IVH should be attuned to their increased risk of shunt failure.

Effect of antibiotic-impregnated shunts on infection rate in adult hydrocephalus: a single institution's experience

BACKGROUND

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunt infection remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in the treatment of hydrocephalus. Studies have demonstrated the efficacy of antibiotic-impregnated shunt (AIS) systems in reducing CSF shunt infections in pediatric patients. Fewer studies evaluate the efficacy of AIS systems in adult hydrocephalus.

OBJECTIVE

: To determine whether categorical conversion to AIS shunt systems reduced the incidence of shunt infection in adults.

METHODS

All adult patients undergoing CSF shunt insertion over a 7-year period were retrospectively reviewed (2004-2009). In 2006, a categorical switch to AIS catheters was made. Before 2006, standard nonimpregnated shunt catheters were used. We retrospectively reviewed the first 250 cases of AIS catheter implantation and compared them with the immediately preceding 250 non-AIS cases to assess 1-year incidence of CSF shunt infection.

RESULTS

Five hundred shunt surgeries were performed for normal-pressure hydrocephalus in 378 patients (76%), pseudotumor cerebri in 83 patients (17%), and various obstructive/communicating hydrocephalus etiologies in 40 patients (8%). All patients were followed for 12 months. The mean age was 60 ± 18 years. Baseline characteristics were similar between AIS (n = 250) and non-AIS (n = 250) cohorts. Overall, 13 patients (2.6%) experienced CSF shunt infection, occurring a mean of 2 ± 2 months postoperatively. Shunt infection incidence was decreased in AIS (1.2%) vs non-AIS (4.0%) cohorts (P = .0492). Staphylococcus epidermidis was the most common pathogen in AIS and non-AIS cohorts. Oxacillin resistance was not increased in the AIS cohort.

CONCLUSION

Categorical conversion to AIS catheters was associated with a reduced incidence of shunt infection. AIS catheters may be a reliable instrument for decreasing perioperative shunt colonization and subsequent infection in adults with hydrocephalus.

Progression of cerebrospinal fluid cell count and differential over a treatment course of shunt infection

OBJECT

The physiological reaction of CSF white blood cells (WBCs) over the course of treating a shunt infection is undefined. The authors speculated that the CSF WBC count varies with different infecting organisms in peak level and differential percentage of polymorphonuclear (PMN) leukocytes, lymphocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils. The authors hope to identify clinically useful trends in the progression of CSF WBCs by analyzing a large group of patients with successfully treated shunt infections.

METHODS

The authors reviewed 105 successfully treated cases of shunt infections at Riley Hospital for Children. The study dates ranged from 2000 to 2004; this represented a period prior to the routine use of antibiotic-impregnated shunt catheters. They analyzed the following organisms: coagulase-negative staphylococci, Staphylococcus aureus, Propionibacterium acnes, Streptococcal species, and gram-negative organisms. The initial CSF sample at diagnosis was analyzed, as were levels over 14 days of treatment. Model fitting was performed to generate curves for the expected progression of the WBC counts and the differential PMN leukocytes, lymphocyte, monocyte, and eosinophil percentages.

RESULTS

Gram-negative organisms resulted in a higher initial (p = 0.03) and peak WBC count with a greater differential of PMN leukocytes compared with other organisms. Propionibacterium acnes infections were associated with a significantly lower WBC count and PMN leukocytes percentage (p = 0.02) and higher eosinophil percentage (p = 0.002) than other organisms. The pattern progression of the CSF WBC count and differential percentages was consistent for all infections. There was an initial predominance of PMN leukocytes, followed by a delayed peak of lymphocytes, monocytes, and eosinophils over a 14-day course. All values trended toward zero over the treatment course.

CONCLUSIONS

The initial and peak levels of CSF WBCs vary with the infecting organisms. The CSF cell counts showed a predictable pattern during the treatment of shunt infection. These trends may be useful to the physician in clinical decision making, although there is a wide range of variability.

What should we do with a discontinued shunt?

PURPOSE

The reported rate is up to 10% of shunt disconnection or fracture, either ventriculoperitoneal or subduroperitoneal. However, not all of shunt discontinuity is associated with shunt malfunction. We analyzed the discontinuity of the shunt system and related factors and tried to present a follow-up policy.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study involving 22 patients who presented with shunt disconnection because of malfunction or other reasons between January 2003 and October 2008. To evaluate shunt function, we performed a shuntogram, temporary ligation, or intraoperative exploration.

RESULTS

Nine (40.9%) of 22 patients had nonfunctioning shunts. The shunt system was removed in eight cases, and one patient refused surgical management. Of these 22 patients with disconnected shunts, 17 shunts placed in the occipital area were discontinued. The discontinuations were mostly fractured at neck (52%), not disconnected at connection site.

CONCLUSION

Shunt disconnection has not been always represented a shunt malfunction. We thought many patients with disconnected shunt may be independent from shunt system, and it can be a good chance for patient to remove the shunt system.

Hospital costs associated with shunt infections in patients receiving antibiotic-impregnated shunt catheters versus standard shunt catheters

BACKGROUND

The average hospital cost for shunt infection treatment is $50,000, making it the most financially costly implant-related infection in the United States. We set out to determine whether introduction of antibiotic-impregnated shunts (AISs) in our practice has decreased the incidence of shunt infection or decreased infection-related hospital costs at our institution.

METHODS

Clinical and hospital billing records of pediatric patients undergoing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunt insertion at a single institution from April 2001 to December 2006 were retrospectively reviewed. Eighteen months before October 2002, all CSF shunts included standard, non-AIS catheters. During the 4 years after October 2002, all CSF shunts included AIS catheters. Patients were followed at least 18 months after surgery.

RESULTS

A total of 406 pediatric patients underwent 608 shunt placement procedures (400 AISs, 208 non-AISs). Of patients with non-AIS catheters, 25 (12%) experienced shunt infection, whereas only 13 patients (3.2%) with AIS catheters experienced shunt infection during follow-up (P < .001). The total hospital cost to treat 25 non-AIS shunt infections over the first 18 months was $1,234,928. The total hospital cost to treat 13 AIS shunt infections over the past 4 years was $606,328. The mean hospital cost per shunt infection was similar for infected AIS and non-AIS catheters ($46,640 vs. $49,397). However, the infection-related hospital cost per 100 patients shunted was markedly lower in the AIS cohort than in the non-AIS cohort ($151,582 vs. $593,715).

DISCUSSION

The introduction of AIS catheters in our institutional practice reduced the incidence of shunt infection and resulted in significant hospital cost savings. AIS systems are efficient and cost-effective instruments to prevent perioperative colonization of CSF shunt components.

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy and ventriculoperitoneal shunts: a dangerous combination?

BACKGROUND

We report the largest European series of patients in whom both ventriculoperitoneal shunts (VPS) and percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomies (PEG) have been inserted with the aim of determining if this combination is safe or if there is an increased risk of VPS infection.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The paper and electronic records of 302 patients who had a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt inserted in the regional Neurosciences unit at Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust between 2002 and 2007 were reviewed.

RESULTS

A total of 24 patients with VP shunts had 26 PEG inserted. Thirteen PEG were inserted in 11 patients with a pre-existing VP shunt. The median age was 58 years (21-77 Yrs) with seven male and 17 female patients. In total, five patients developed a shunt infection (20.8%) compared to the overall rate of VP shunt infection for Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust of 7% (P = 0.017). The increase in number of VP shunt infections when the procedures were done more than 10 days apart (2/14) was not significant (P = 0.25).

CONCLUSION

In patients who need long-term enteral feeding following a VP shunt insertion it may be prudent to delay insertion of a PEG for at least 10 days to reduce VPS infection. In stable patients who have had a VP shunt inserted on previous hospital admissions PEG insertion need not be avoided because of concern regarding cerebrospinal fluid or shunt infection.

Infection rates following initial cerebrospinal fluid shunt placement across pediatric hospitals in the United States. Clinical article

OBJECT

Reported rates of CSF shunt infection vary widely across studies. The study objective was to determine the CSF shunt infection rates after initial shunt placement at multiple US pediatric hospitals. The authors hypothesized that infection rates between hospitals would vary widely even after adjustment for patient, hospital, and surgeon factors.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included children 0-18 years of age with uncomplicated initial CSF shunt placement performed between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2005, and recorded in the Pediatric Health Information System (PHIS) longitudinal administrative database from 41 children's hospitals. For each child with 24 months of follow-up, subsequent CSF shunt infections and procedures were determined.

RESULTS

The PHIS database included 7071 children with uncomplicated initial CSF shunt placement during this time period. During the 24 months of follow-up, these patients had a total of 825 shunt infections and 4434 subsequent shunt procedures. Overall unadjusted 24-month CSF shunt infection rates were 11.7% per patient and 7.2% per procedure. Unadjusted 24-month cumulative incidence rates for each hospital ranged from 4.1 to 20.5% per patient and 2.5-12.3% per procedure. Factors significantly associated with infection (p < 0.05) included young age, female sex, African-American race, public insurance, etiology of intraventricular hemorrhage, respiratory complex chronic condition, subsequent revision procedures, hospital volume, and surgeon case volume. Malignant lesions and trauma as etiologies were protective. Infection rates for each hospital adjusted for these factors decreased to 8.8-12.8% per patient and 1.4-5.3% per procedure.

CONCLUSIONS

Infections developed in > 11% of children who underwent uncomplicated initial CSF shunt placements within 24 months. Patient, hospital, and surgeon factors contributed somewhat to the wide variation in CSF shunt infection rates across hospitals. Additional factors may contribute to variation in CSF shunt infection rates between centers, but further study is needed. Benchmarking and future prospective multicenter studies of CSF shunt infection will need to incorporate these and other patient, hospital, and surgeon factors.

Postoperative cerebrospinal fluid wound leakage as a predictor of shunt infection: a prospective analysis of 205 cases. Clinical article

OBJECT

The purpose of this study was to audit some of the risk factors for CSF shunt infections within the authors' practice and analyze the statistical significance of these factors.

METHODS

The authors used their own contemporaneously collected shunt database in this study. All shunt procedures performed over a 2-year period between March 2000 and February 2002 at Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, were analyzed. For the purposes of this study, positive CSF cultures were a prerequisite for a data set to qualify as a shunt infection. The authors studied the effects of patient age, the etiology of hydrocephalus, whether the surgery was primary shunt placement versus a revision, the surgeon's level of experience, whether the surgery was performed on an elective or emergency basis, and the presence or absence of a perioperative CSF leak. Statistical analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Two hundred and five patients with a mean (+/- SD) age at surgery of 27.9 +/- 43.0 months were included in this study. Shunt infections developed in 17 patients (8.3%) at a median of 42 days postoperatively (range 14-224 days). The presence of a perioperative CSF leak was the only variable that showed a statistically significant association with the occurrence of a shunt infection, with an infection rate of 57.1% compared to 4.7% in cases with no leak (OR 27.0 [95% CI 7.7-94.3]). The cause of hydrocephalus, elective versus emergency surgery, level of surgeon experience, a primary versus a revision procedure, and patient age did not have a bearing on the infection risk.

CONCLUSIONS

The presence of a perioperative CSF leak puts pediatric patients at a very high risk of shunt infection. Aside from prevention, the optimal management of such CSF leaks require further investigation.

Comparison of shunt infection incidence in high-risk subgroups receiving antibiotic-impregnated versus standard shunts

BACKGROUND

Shunt infection is a morbid complication of CSF shunting. Though antibiotic-impregnated shunt (AIS) systems decrease shunt infections by preventing bacterial colonization following device implantation, their effectiveness in populations at high risk for infection has recently been disputed. We set out to determine whether the categorical switch to AIS systems at our institution has resulted in a decreased incidence of shunt infection in high-risk pediatric patients.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records from all pediatric patients undergoing CSF shunt procedures at The Johns Hopkins Hospital over a 10-year period between January 1997 and December 2007. During the 5.75 years prior to October 2002, all CSF shunts included standard, non-AIS catheters. During the 4.25 years after October 2002, all CSF shunts included AIS catheters. High-risk subgroups were defined a priori as prematurity (<35 weeks gestational age), shunts placed immediately post-meningitis, conversion of external ventricular drains (EVD) to shunt, and replacement of nosocomial shunt infection in patients requiring prolonged hospital stay (>1 month).

RESULTS

A total of 544 pediatric patients underwent 1,072 shunt placement procedures (502 AIS, 570 non-AIS). Of patients with non-AIS catheters, 64 (11.2%) experienced shunt infection, whereas only 16 (3.2%) patients with AIS catheters experienced shunt infection (p<0.001). AIS versus non-AIS was associated with decreased shunt infection in premature neonates [three (5.5%) vs. seven (20.0%), p=0.030], acutely following bacterial meningitis [two (5.7%) vs. nine (25.0%), p=0.043], when converting EVD to shunts [zero (0%) vs. four (13.3%), p=0.030], and in patients with prolonged hospital stay>1 month [three (5.3%) vs. 12 (18.5%), p=0.022]. Staphylococcus aureus was the most common infectious agent for both non-AIS (81.3%) and AIS (75.0%) systems.

CONCLUSION

The introduction of AIS catheters into our institutional practice has reduced the incidence of shunt infection in pediatric populations at highest risk for infection. AIS catheters are effective instruments to prevent peri-operative colonization of CSF shunt components.

Conversion of external ventricular drains to ventriculoperitoneal shunts after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: effects of site and protein/red blood cell counts on shunt infection and malfunction

Object

The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence of shunt infection in patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) after converting an external ventricular drain (EVD) to a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt using the existing EVD site. The second purpose was to assess the risk of shunt malfunction after converting the EVD to a permanent shunt irrespective of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein and red blood cell (RBC) counts.

Methods

Data obtained in 80 consecutive adult patients (18 men and 62 women, mean age 60.8 years, range 33–85 years) who underwent direct conversion of an EVD to a VP shunt for post-SAH hydrocephalus between August 2002 and March 2007 were retrospectively reviewed. In each patient, the existing EVD site was used to pass the proximal shunt catheter. In no patient was VP shunt insertion delayed based on preoperative RBC or protein counts.

Results

The mean period of external ventricular drainage before VP shunt placement was 14.1 days (range 3–45 days). No patient suffered ventriculitis. The mean perioperative CSF protein level was 124 mg/dl (range 17–516 mg/dl). The mean and median perioperative RBC values in CSF were 14,203 RBCs/mm3 and 4600 RBCs/mm3 (range 119–290,000/mm3), respectively. No patient was lost to follow-up. The mean follow-up duration was 24 months (range 2–53 months). Three patients (3.8%) had shunt malfunction related to obstruction of the shunt system after 15 days, 2 months, and 18 months, respectively. There were no shunt-related infections. No patient suffered a clinically significant hemorrhage from ventricular catheter placement after VP shunt insertion.

Conclusions

In adult patients with aneurysmal SAH, conversion of an EVD to a VP shunt can be safely done using the same EVD site. In this defined patient population, protein and RBC counts in the CSF do not seem to affect shunt survival adversely. Thus, conversion of an EVD to VP shunt should not be delayed because of an elevated protein or RBC count.