I'm sorry to hear you have to take the plunge, but it will be so much easier on your system than the routine LP's! I feel so much better when my shunt is working properly. I've had a lumbar shunt for 11 years now and am very pleased. I have had issues with overdraining and have had a few revisions, but they were very simple surgeries and I always feel so much better!
I know you said you were going to look into both types..you may also want to take a look at the
Useful Guides and Print Outs section for questions to ask the neurosurgeon. If you meditate at all, I would also suggested the guided imagery cd's offered for preparing and recovering from surgery. It made my last one so much easier than the rest..state of mind really does make a difference!
Let us know if you have any questions, and definitely keep us posted!
[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]Julie