We use cookies so our web site can function correctly. By clicking "OK" or by clicking into any content on this site, you agree to allow cookies to be placed.

Privacy Statement

A cookie is a small file which asks permission to be placed on your computer's hard drive. Once you agree, the file is added and the cookie helps analyse web traffic or lets you know when you visit a particular site. Cookies allow web applications to respond to you as an individual. The web application can tailor its operations to your needs, likes and dislikes by gathering and remembering information about your preferences.

We use traffic log cookies to identify which pages are being used. This helps us analyse data about web page traffic and improve our website in order to tailor it to customer needs. We only use this information for statistical analysis purposes.

Overall, cookies help us provide you with a better website, by enabling us to monitor which pages you find useful and which you do not. A cookie in no way gives us access to your computer or any information about you, other than the data you choose to share with us.

Cookie group mandatory

(Req)
These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off in our systems. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you which amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in or filling in forms.
You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the site will not then work. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable information.

These cookies are required

Functional

These cookies allow us to adtertise our products to you and allow us to pass this information on to our trusted third parties so that they can advertise our products to you on our behalf
All information these cookies collect is aggregated and therefore anonymous. No personal inforation is shared to third parties. Any personal information collected while using our website could be used for direct marketing from HCA only

Marketing

These cookies allow us to advertise our products to you and allow us to pass this information on to our trusted third parties so that they can advertise our products to you on our behalf
All information these cookies collect is aggregated and therefore anonymous. No personal inforation is shared to third parties. Any personal information collected while using our website could be used for direct marketing from HCA only

Performance Cookies

These cookies allow us to know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site.  All information collect is annonomas unless you provide personal information to us.
If you do not allow these cookies we will not know when you have visited our site, and will not be able to monitor its performance.

Type to search, press ESC to leave

Lumbar-peritoneal shunt

If you have excessive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), our expert neurosurgeons can treat you with a lumbar peritoneal shunt

Book an appointment

HCA Booking Line:

0207 079 4344

About

Hydrocephalus is the name given to a build-up of fluid on the brain. If left untreated, it can exert pressure on the brain and, in some cases, develop into a serious and potentially fatal condition. Our neurosurgeons can carry out a lumbar peritoneal shunt to drain the fluid so it doesn't pose a risk.

Need to know

  • What happens icon plus

    A lumbar peritoneal shunt is a small device that aims to relieve pressure on the brain, caused by a build-up of fluid on the brain. The procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic, which means you'll be asleep. Your neurosurgeon will start by making a small incision in your lower back, before inserting a shunt (thin tube) into your spinal canal. The shunt will be joined to a one-way valve and then attached to another tube that travels under the skin to the abdomen. This allows the fluid on your brain to drain into a cavity in your abdomen, where it can reabsorb into your body naturally.

  • How to prepare icon plus

    Your neurosurgeon will explain your lumbar peritoneal shunt procedure to you and answer any questions you might have. As you'll be having general anaesthetic, they'll let you know how long you should avoid eating and drinking before surgery. You may also be asked to attend a nurse led pre-assessment clinic. Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.

  • Afterwards icon plus

    After your lumbar peritoneal shunt, you'll be transferred to our recovery ward, where you’ll be looked after by a specialist team. Your neurosurgeon will explain your recovery time to you and when you can expect to get back to your usual routine.

Our consultants

We're proud to work with leading experts across a range of medical fields, whose skills are matched by their integrity and compassion.
Consultant in theatres

Our facilities

From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.

Request an appointment

Our booking teams can help you make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.

020 7079 4344
Book an appointment
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.
back to top