What is an LP shunt?
LP ShuntIt is is inserted between two of the vertebrae in the lumbar region of the spine, and also into the Subarachnoid cavity, which is a spongy tissue filled cavity that surrounds the brain and spinal cord, and this is where Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is contained.
It then drains the excess cerebrospinal fluid from the brain via the Subarachnoid cavity and transports it to the peritoneal cavity, it is eventually absorbed by the organs and passed out of the body during urination.
It's done under anaesthetic, and takes just a few hours. Two insertions are made, one on your lumbar spine which is vertical and the other on your abdomen which is horizontal. Find out more from
guidance.nice.org.ukLumbar Subcutaneous ShuntThe Lumbar subcutaneous shunt (LS shunt) is different because the cerebrospinal fluid drains into the potential space immediately under the skin. A narrow tube is inserted into the subarachnoid space in the lumbar part of the back during a lumbar puncture. It is then fed under the skin to a place where it can drain fluid, usually in between the last rib and the hip. Find out more from
nice.org.uk