Appendicitis and peritonitis in children with a ventriculo-peritoneal shunt

Abstract

Abstract Purpose: The purpose of this study was to outline the management of patients with appendicitis and ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS). Methods: Patients with VPS presenting with an acute abdomen between 2012 and 2022 at a tertiary-care pediatric facility were the subject of a descriptive analysis. Patients were divided into two groups based on their diagnoses: group A (appendicitis) and group B (primary peritonitis). Medical records were analyzed to look at the diagnostics, operative approach, complications, peritoneal and liquor culture and antibiotic treatment. Results: A total of 17 patients were examined: 7 patients in group A and 10 individuals in group B. In the present study patients in group A typically present younger, sicker, and with more neurological symptoms than those in group B. All patients with appendicitis had their VPS exteriorized and a new shunt system into the peritoneum reimplanted 20 days later. Conclusion Surgery should be aggressively administered to patients who present with an acute abdomen and a VPS. In those with evident perforation, change of the whole shunt system is suggested. Shunt infection and dysfunction should be ruled out in patients with abdominal symptoms, and surgical care should be started with a low threshold.