Department of Neurosurgery, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis.
The development of effective cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunts represents a landmark achievement in neurosurgery. This success, however, has been tempered by a high incidence of serious complications that accompany the diversion of CSF. This article examines the various complications of CSF shunting, including proximal, valve, and distal obstruction; infection; and other rare complications, and management of these complications.