Other surgical procedures
Shunt
A build up of Cerebrospinal Fluid caused by the growth of a brain tumour may block the normal circulation of fluid around the brain and spinal cord. The fluid builds up inside the skull because it cannot drain away. This increased pressure causes severe headaches and, although steroids can be given initially, the fluid must be drained. Therefore, an operation to insert a shunt (drainage tube) may be necessary. It may also be called a ventricular catheter. Shunts are usually plastic and about 3mm across. It has valves so that fluid can flow down from the brain but not back the other way. Shunts divert the extra fluid from the brain to other parts of the body, where it is harmlessly absorbed. The most common is the 'ventriculo-peritoneal shunt'. Another type of shunt drains the fluid into the chest cavity.
Lumbar puncture
A lumber puncture involves taking a sample of the Cerebrospinal Fluid (fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord). Analysis will identify if cancerous cells have spread, affecting the brain and/or spine. For further information please click on the link:
http://www.cancerbackup.org.uk/Treatments/Chemotherapy/Lumbarpuncture
Implantable devices for administering chemotherapy, taking/receiving blood, giving fluids or antibiotics.
Portacath
A portacath is an implantable port device, which is positioned completely under the skin and inserted into a vein. The portacath will be inserted under general anaesthetic in the operating theatre. The portacath is positioned in the chest. The portacath can be used for chemotherapy administration, for taking blood and receiving hydration fluids or antibiotics. A portacath will need to be accessed by a nurse inserting a needle into the small opening of the port.
Whenever the port is not accessed the child can shower or go swimming as normal. For further information please click on the link:
http://www.cancerbackup.org.uk/Treatments/Chemotherapy/Linesports/Implantableport
Hickman Line
A Hickman Line (central line) serves the same purpose as a portacath. However, the end of the Hickman line is outside of the chest and is sealed off with a cap. Special care must be taken to prevent infection. For further information please click on the link:
http://www.cancerbackup.org.uk/Treatments/Chemotherapy/Linesports/Centralline
PICC Line
A PICC line is inserted through a vein in the arm until it reaches a vein near to the heart. The end of the PICC line is situated near to the elbow. Chemotherapy, blood and fluids can be given this way. For further information please click on the link:
http://www.cancerbackup.org.uk/Treatments/Chemotherapy/Linesports/PICCline
