Shunt malfunction after roller coaster ride.

INTRODUCTION

We report a case of shunt malfunction after a child was subjected to G forces during a roller coaster ride.

DISCUSSION

The temporal sequence of events suggests proximal catheter obstruction with subsequent symptoms of raised intracranial pressure immediately after experience with a G force ride. A shunt revision with catheter change led to resolution of symptoms, and findings were consistent with hemorrhage within the catheter.

CONCLUSION

This case illustrates the risks of such an experience on children with shunts and the implications for patient counseling.