Detached catheters in the peritoneal cavity are among the complication
s following implantation of ventriculoperitoneal shunts. We present on
e case and discuss the value of a laparoscopic approach to retrieve th
is foreign body. Laparoscopic removal of these catheters is an effecti
ve and safe procedure and can be used in these ill patients, avoiding
the possible complications of a laparotomy.