Laparoscopy in a patient with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt: A case report and literature review

Objective: This case emphasizes the safety of laparoscopy in patients with ventriculoperitoneal shunts. Summary of background data: Previously published reports have suggested possible risks associated with laparoscopy in patients with ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Methods: We report a case of a 17-year-old male with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt inserted 6 years ago to manage hydrocephalus that developed after surgery for medulloblastoma. The patient presented with a 5-day history of abdominal pain. He was diagnosed as having acute biliary pancreatitis. We performed laparoscopic cholecystectomy with the ventriculoperitoneal shunt in place. Conclusion: The patient had an uneventful recovery with no shunt-related complications.