Prevention of ventricular catheter obstruction and slit ventricle syndrome by the prophylactic use of the Integra antisiphon device in shunt therapy for pediatric hypertensive hydrocephalus: a 25-year follow-up study

Object This 25-year follow-up study was performed on 120 children with hypertensive hydrocephalus to evaluate the influence of the early prophylactic implantation of the Integra antisiphon device (ASD, Integra Neurosciences Ltd.) on the rate of proximal shunt obstructions and the frequency of symptomatic slit ventricle syndrome (SVS). The adaptability of the ASD to growth, proper positioning of the ASD as a necessity for its successful performance, and the 3 phases of SVS development are discussed. Method Since 1978, the ASD has consistently been implanted either at the time of primary shunt insertion (66 neonates, mean follow-up 11 years) or during revisions of preexisting shunts (54 chil…