Protein adsorption to hydrocephalus shunt catheters: CSF protein adsorption.

OBJECTIVE To assess the quantity and nature of the proteins that adsorb to hydrocephalus shunt catheters after implantation, and to determine whether sufficient could accumulate to obstruct the catheter. DESIGN Elution of proteins from 102 explanted shunt catheters, with protein assay and electrophoresis of the eluate, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of the catheters. RESULTS The amount of protein elutable was extremely low, and significant protein, apart from a thin film, was not found on SEM. Qualitative analysis disclosed that most of the adsorbed protein was albumin. CONCLUSIONS Protein deposition on hydrocephalus catheters does not occur in sufficient quantities to cause catheter obstruction.