Infection most often results from colonization by normally nonpathogenic skin flora at the time of implantation

Antibiotic-impregnated shunt (AIS) systems decrease colonization of shunt components by staphylococcal species conferring a putative protection against early shunt infections
 
Although such systems have been clinically shown to decrease the incidence of early shunt infections (< 6 months), it is unclear if such exposure to prolonged antibiotics leads to an increased incidence or virulence of late shunt infections (> 6 months).
 
Antibiotic-impregnated shunts are indicated for use in the treatment of hydrocephalus when draining  or shunting cerebral fluid is indicated. Has been shown in studies to reduce the colonization of  bacteria on tubing surfaces.
 
Our Antibiotic-Impregnated shunts are effective against the bugs that are susceptible to rifampicin and clindamycin. Rifampicin and clindamycin are effective against
most strains of bacteria that cause shunt infections.
 
•Shunt infection occurs when a pathogen attaches itself in or on the shunt
 
•Majority of bacterial contamination is  introduced at time of surgery
 
•Infection becomes clinically evident in 3-4 weeks post operation
 
•Shunt infections can be both internal or external to the shunt