The ShuntAssistant® / paedi-ShuntAssistant® is a gravitational shunt made of titanium. Its purpose is to prevent overdrainage in shunted hydrocephalus patients, independent of the patient’s body position. As an auxiliary valve it can be implanted either secondarily to support drainage in problem patients or initially in combination with non-adjustable or adjustable differential pressure valves.

Supine Function
In the supine position of the patient the IVP is only controlled by the differential pressure valve. The ShuntAssistant® / paedi-ShuntAssistant® has no influence on the shunt.

Upright Function
As soon as the patient stands up the ShuntAssistant® / paedi-ShuntAssistant® compensates the additional hydrostatic pressure difference in the shunt-system. The opening performance of the shunt is always adapted to the requirements depending on the posture of the patient.  

The ShuntAssistant® is available in five different pressure ranges (depending on height) with and without preattachted catheters.

The pressure-range of an implanted device can be detected by x-ray.

Further detailed information asbrochure download (PDF 641 KB)