Valve Types
Some of the shunt types available include fixed pressure valves, valves with overdrainage protection (Delta® valves), or valves that can be adjusted to different pressure settings after surgery (Strata® valves).
The fixed pressure valves include a single valve mechanism that regulates the shunt flow rate. The valves are typically available in three pressure ranges: low, medium or high.
The Delta valves include an overdrainage component at the valve outlet. The purpose of the overdrainage component is to minimize overdrainage due to gravity's effect on the shunt tube when the patient is in the upright position.
The adjustable Strata valve includes a mechanism that can be non-invasively adjusted with a strong magnet. This gives the doctor the ability to change the valve pressure setting in his office without using a surgical procedure. Since the valve includes a magnet, special precautions must be observed when being around strong magnetic sources such as retail security scanners, metal detectors, and some audio headphones. Common everyday household equipment such as microwave ovens, telephones, and computers are not strong enough to affect the valve. For patients that undergo an MRI procedure, it is necessary for the doctor to check the valve pressure setting afterwards and readjust it if necessary.
More Information
Fixed Pressure Valves
Delta Valves
Strata Valves
Catheters |
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Fixed Pressure Valves
Delta® Valves with Siphon Control
Adjustable Strata® Valves
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