Is anyone with a VP shunt also experiencing GERD, gastric dumping, etc

Posted by ncb @ncb, Jun 4, 2023

In 2008, a ventriculoperitoneal shunt was implanted in my head to drain excess cerebrospinal fluid (from intercranial hypertension) and a hole in the base of my skull was plugged to stop a CSF leak. The shunt catheter was placed in my lower abdomen and ever since I've had chronic diarrhea, bowel urgency, gastric dumping, ulcers and gastritis, GERD/heartburn, and other digestive issues. In 2016, the shunt and catheter were replaced and the catheter was redirected to my upper abdomen so that it ends near my liver. This year, with a new neurosurgeon, the shunt has been reset twice and the headaches and visual disturbances have stopped. I am interested to know if other shunt patients have had GI problems and what was done to correct those problems.

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emeraldangel93 | @emeraldangel93 | 6 days ago

Yes, I’m definitely dealing with gerd. For last two years. My gastroenterologist had me go to my neurologist np about it potentially being a shunt thing. I went to see her and she said it doesn’t sound like a shunt issue. I even had a ct scan 2 weeks ago. Nothing. I had an appointment with my gastroenterologist today and he’s doing absolutely nothing. He still thinks it’s a shunt thing. I’m on 3 different pills for my stomach and nothing is helping. He acts like he couldn’t care less about all of this. I just need to know what’s up. Whether it be a shunt thing or not. Someone’s bound to know. Seeing that your post is from 2023, did you get any help for your gerd issues? If so, any advice?

Lisa Lucier, Moderator | @lisalucier | 6 days ago

In reply to @emeraldangel93 "Yes, I’m definitely dealing with gerd. For last two years. My gastroenterologist had me go to..." + (show)

Hello, @emeraldangel93. Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. I'm sorry nothings is helping the GERD. I'm also sorry to hear about the differing opinions on the ventriculoperitoneal shunt and its possible relationship to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastric dumping and related symptoms.

Tagging a few others who may have thoughts on having a ventriculoperitoneal shunt and any ensuing gastrointestinal issues @lynda1992 @ncb @julese @barbwith3cats @ortina2023.