Distal Catheter Migration into Scrotum as a Rare Complication of Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt in Pediatrics; A Case Series

Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt placement is the common treatment approach in children with hydrocephalus. Complications of VP shunt are not uncommon but some are unusual and rare. Except infection and obstruction, other complications of VP shunts are uncommon and distal catheter migration into scrotum is one of the rarest ones. 

Here we present a rare complication of VP shunt, distal catheter migration into scrotum, in 4 patients that presented with scrotal swelling or bulging in the inguinal region, who underwent surgery for replacment of the distal cathether in peritoneum and processus vaginalis repair. 

In patients with a history of VP shunt placement who candidate for surgery due to inguinal hernia or hydrocele, possible migration of distal catheter should keep in mind by the surgeon. This complication can occur as early as at the time of shunt placement or delayed.