Uncloggable ventriculoperitoneal shunt system for hydrocephalus via an integrated soft robotic device: CLEARS device.

ABSTRACT: Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt obstruction, often caused by protein and fat accumulation at the ventricular catheter ports, impedes cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) outflow, increases intracranial pressure (ICP), and leads to hydrocephalus. Current treatments require invasive shunt removal, reimplantation, or retrograde flush cleansing. We present a next-generation VP shunt system that actively removes blockages via external actuation. Our system, called CLogging Elimination ActuatoR Silicone (CLEARS), integrates a soft, expandable silicone tube within the catheter lumen. This soft robotic insert, capable of 900% strain, can inflate to dislodge blockages and then deflate to restore flow. To test CLEARS, we developed an ex vivo model simulating CSF flow and obstruction using a rapidly acting clog

SUBMITTER: Yun YC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12426090 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature