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Minimally Invasive Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt System for Simplifying Hydrocephalus Treatment

VP shunt device enableing minimal invasive replacement and interrogation of catheters for cerebrospinal fluid diversion

Surgeons in an operating room
Source: santypan, 145937218, www.stock.adobe.com

Background

The ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt market, which dominates the hydrocephalus shunt industry with a 93.45% market share in 2024, was valued at USD 0.72 billion in 2022 and is projected to reach USD 1.05 billion by 2030. VP shunts are critical neurosurgical devices used to divert cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for treatment of hydrocephalus; a condition characterized by excessive CSF buildup in the brain. Hydrocephalus can result from various factors, including infections, hemorrhages, strokes, tumors, and congenital malformations. VP shunts are thin tubes that divert CSF from the brain to the abdominal cavity and are used in over 90% of cases. Unfortunately, VP shunts have long operating durations and high complication rates, with 15% of patients requiring revision within the first 30 days and 20-40% within the first year of insertion. Furthermore, diagnosing and addressing shunt malfunctions is challenging due to the need for general anesthesia and extensive incisions. There is a high need for a less invasive approach to shunt revision and maintenance.

Technology Overview

The innovative VP shunt system represents a groundbreaking advancement in hydrocephalus treatment, addressing the challenges associated with traditional shunt designs and revision procedures.

Key features include:

  1. Accessible catheters: Both proximal and distal catheters are accessible percutaneously. ((E.g. the screw cap can be removed at the proximal access port of the connector, granting direct access to the proximal catheter).
  2. Connector system: Proximal and distal connectors engage with the catheters and one-way valve, facilitating fluid flow and easy access.
  3. One-way valve: Regulates cerebrospinal fluid drainage from the ventricle to the body cavity.
  4. Modular design: Various configurations of connectors and valve integration for patient-specific needs.
  5. Minimally invasive access: Allows for fluoroscopic interrogation and introduction of tools for blockage removal

Figure drawing of the shunt system
Figure 1 - illustration of shunt system. Source: 成人大片.

The core feature of this system is the incorporation of removable screw caps on both proximal and distal catheters, coupled with specialized connectors linking the catheters to the valve. This unique configuration allows for direct access to catheter interiors, enabling catheter replacement through small stab incisions or even percutaneously, reducing the need for open surgery.

Benefits

  • Decreased operative time and reduced need for general anesthesia
  • Smaller incisions and reduced risk of complications
  • Improved diagnosis of shunt malfunctions through direct catheter access
  • Potential for outpatient or interventional radiology suite procedures
  • Reduced healthcare costs associated with shunt revisions

Applications

  • Treatment of hydrocephalus in both pediatric and adult patients
  • Revision and maintenance of ventriculoperitoneal shunts
  • Diagnosis and treatment of shunt malfunctions

Opportunity

This technology offers improved patient outcomes and reduced healthcare costs in the management of hydrocephalus. Licensing opportunities are available for medical device companies specializing in neurosurgical products.

Patents

  • Patent Application WO2024020677A1 鈥淰entricular shunt system鈥

IP Status

Patent application submitted

Seeking

  • Development partner, 
  • Commercial partner, 
  • Licensing, 
  • Seeking investment

Posted

March 13, 2025