Shunt placement surgery in Germany

The best hospitals for shunt placement surgery in Germany are listed below. The rank is based on multiple factors, including price, quality of the doctors, cost of treatment and the success rate from our user reviews.

Shunt placement surgery

Shunt placement surgery is a medical procedure performed to treat conditions characterized by the accumulation of excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. This fluid normally surrounds the brain and spinal cord, providing protection and nutrients. However, when there is an imbalance in the production and absorption of CSF, it can lead to increased pressure within the skull, a condition known as hydrocephalus.

The surgical placement of a shunt is a common and effective treatment for managing hydrocephalus. The shunt is a flexible tube that diverts excess CSF from the brain to another part of the body, typically the abdominal cavity, where it can be reabsorbed into the bloodstream. This helps to regulate the fluid balance and reduce intracranial pressure.
Here’s an overview of the shunt placement surgery:
1. Preoperative Evaluation:
Before the surgery, the patient undergoes a thorough evaluation, including imaging studies (MRI or CT scans) to assess the extent of hydrocephalus and identify the optimal shunt placement route.
2. Anesthesia:
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, meaning the patient is unconscious and pain-free during the surgery.
3. Shunt Components:
The typical components of a shunt system include a catheter (flexible tube), a valve to regulate the flow of CSF, and a reservoir or collection chamber.
4. Shunt Placement:
The neurosurgeon makes a small incision in the scalp to access the ventricular system of the brain, where excess CSF accumulates.
A catheter is carefully inserted into the ventricle, and the other end is threaded under the skin, connecting to the valve and the collection chamber.
The valve is typically placed under the skin behind the ear or in another suitable location.
5. Tunneling and Abdominal Placement:
The catheter is tunneled under the skin, usually down the neck, chest, and abdomen.
The abdominal end of the catheter is placed in the peritoneal cavity, where the excess CSF can be absorbed.
6. Valve Adjustment:
The valve is adjusted to control the rate of CSF drainage, ensuring that it matches the body’s needs.
7. Closure:
The incisions are closed with sutures or staples, and the surgical site is typically covered with a sterile dressing.
8. Postoperative Care:
After surgery, patients are monitored closely for any signs of complications or infections.
Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to assess the functioning of the shunt and make any necessary adjustments.

Shunt placement surgery is considered a routine and safe procedure, but like any surgery, it carries some risks.

Costs for a shunt placement surgery in Germany

The average costs for a shunt placement surgery in Germany range between €27.000 and €31.400.

Best hospitals for shunt placement surgery in Germany

Here are some renowned hospitals in Germany that are recognized for their expertise in neurosurgery and shunt placement surgery:
University Hospital Frankfurt am Main.
University Hospital Berlin.
University Hospital Mainz.
University Hospital Heidelberg.
University Hospital Munich.