Two of co's ventricular shunts using a "y" connection had been implanted in a 50 y/o male pt.
Approx one mo post implant, one shunt of the two valve system was not functioning.
Subject unit was explanted and replaced uneventfully with another valve ii.
Visual exam: co's valve without the original packaging was received.
Some puncture holes were noted in the antechamber.
Functional testing: patency testing of the valve via aspiration did not reveal any anomalies.
Valve was tested in its original silicone boot.
Complete pressure/flow curve and reflux tests were within specs.
Valve was within mechanical spec.
Ventricular catheter was not obstructed.
Cause for reported difficulty could not be determined, but it does appear to be valve related.
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