Can patency of a VP shunt be checked by palpating?
Patient: Is it possible to check patentcy of VP shunt by palpating ? I have a client in group home who has had major behavior change and I thought of shunt, I was told mom checked it the other day. Client is blind ,non verbal and has MR so questioning her is not an option. Parent not into office visits and believes it s behavioral. Doctor: Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service.  I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. Yes it can be checked. There is sac behind the ear usually right and you have to press it, if you are easily able to press it completely then shunt is patent and if there is resistance to your pressure then it's probably blocked.Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.Regards,Dr. Sagar Makode