2018 AANS Annual Scientific Meeting-715. Shunt Infection Rate in Sub-Saharan Africa in a Randomized Controlled Trial of the Bactiseal Universal Shunt

715. Shunt Infection Rate in Sub-Saharan Africa in a Randomized Controlled Trial of the Bactiseal Universal Shunt

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In this video, Dr. Vaughn presents research on shunt infections in Sub-Saharan Africa. The study compared the use of standard shunts to antibiotic-impregnated shunts in treating hydrocephalus in a population in Uganda. The goal was to determine if the more expensive antibiotic-impregnated shunts were more effective in reducing infections. The study found no significant difference in infection rates, malfunction, mortality, or re-operation between the two groups. The results suggest that the additional cost of antibiotic-impregnated shunts may not be justified, especially considering the financial burden on families who often have to pay for the shunts themselves. The study highlights the need for more research and context-specific approaches to treating hydrocephalus.

Asset Caption

Kerry Vaughan, MD

Keywords

shunt infections

Sub-Saharan Africa

standard shunts

antibiotic-impregnated shunts

hydrocephalus