Enterocutaneous fistula secondary to retained intraperitoneal fragment of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt in a 48-year-old man with spina bifida

Abstract

We report the case of a 48-year-old man with spina bifida and history of previous ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt placement for hydrocephalus. On attempted removal of the shunt 2 years prior to presentation at a neurosurgical unit, the peritoneal component was left in situ due to difficulties with removal. He presented acutely to our general surgical department with an enterocutaneous fistula precipitated by the retained fragment discharging to the right upper abdominal quadrant that required urgent surgical intervention. Although abdominal complications of VP shunts are documented, there is minimal literature as to the risks of remnant catheters being left in situ. This case demonstrates the possible risks with retained VP shunt catheters and the necessity to remove any redundant foreign bodies to prevent significant delayed complications.