Overcoming Obstacles: Paula's VP Shunt Revision

Paula's story exemplifies resilience in the face of medical challenges. Born with myelomeningocele and hydrocephalus, she has undergone numerous procedures throughout her life. Hydrocephalus is a condition where fluid builds up in the brain, and myelomeningocele is a birth defect of the spine and spinal cord. Despite these hurdles, Paula's unwavering spirit has propelled her forward.

On February 11th, Paula's journey took an unexpected turn. She arrived in the Emergency Department with vague abdominal pain and headaches that had persisted throughout the lifespan of her VP shunt, a device that diverts fluid from the brain. Doctors discovered a large liver cyst, potentially connected to the shunt's catheter.

Following this discovery, Dr. Vokshoor and his team suspected a blockage or infection at the shunt tip. To relieve pressure and investigate further, they performed an externalization procedure, temporarily bypassing the shunt.

On March 15th, Paula underwent surgery to remove the old shunt and replace it with a programmable system, due to persistent cyst formation in her abdomen. Despite encountering scar tissue during the procedure, Paula's determination remained unwavering.

The next day, a significant step forward: a ventriculoatrial shunt placement. This new shunt redirects fluid to the heart, aiming to address the cysts and provide long-term relief. Dr. Vokshoor's expertise and dedication were instrumental in Paula's recovery.

In an interview shortly after surgery, Paula expressed immense gratitude for Dr. Vokshoor's care, stating she felt like a new person. Her initial nervousness gave way to excitement about returning to her studies and pursuing her dream of becoming a veterinarian.

Each postoperative visit marked a milestone in Paula's recovery journey. On March 27th, she experienced some incisional pain but remained neurologically stable. Her determination to overcome obstacles was evident as she adapted to using a wheelchair due to lower extremity weakness.

On April 5th, Paula reached another milestone with the removal of her stitches. During this visit, doctors confirmed the appropriate settings for her programmable shunt, ensuring optimal treatment.

Throughout her journey, Paula's resilience and determination have shone brightly. Despite facing numerous challenges, she continues to inspire hope and courage in all those around her. Her story is a powerful reminder of the human spirit's strength and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity.

Moving forward, Paula's medical team remains dedicated to supporting her on her path to optimal health and well-being. As Paula continues to make strides towards recovery, she serves as a beacon of hope for others facing similar challenges. Her journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the indomitable spirit of the human heart.