What Causes Neck Stiffness And Ventriculoatrial Shunt Clogs?

Posted on Wed, 11 May 2016

Question: what exactly happens when you have a stiff neck or you have a problem with the shunt in it clogs in the neck I'm not really clear on that there a possibility that you could explain exactly what happens when you get a blockage like what kind of symptoms or signs you would get if it clogs in any place this is a ventricular atrial shunt

Answered by Dr. Dr. Erion Spaho (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
If clogged shunting, symptoms similar to those previous to procedure.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thanks for asking me directly.

I have read your question and understand your concerns.

If the ventriculoatrial shunt clogs in any place during its pathway, it doesn't drain cerebrospinal fluid anymore, so, symptoms could be similar to those before the shunting procedure ( increased intracranial pressure ).

Stiff neck could indicate subarachnoidal hemorrhage, if the shunting procedure was done recently.

It also could be a sign of infection (meningitis) if there is fever, lethargy, vomiting, headaches.

I suggest you to get checked by the Doctor who inserted the shunting system, in order to diagnose properly the condition.

Hope you found the answer helpful.

I remain at your disposal for further questions and clarifications.

Greetings.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Deepak