Septicaemia due to Colonization of Spitz-Holter Valves by Staphylococci

In progressive hydrocephalus treated by a ventriculo- caval shunt using a Spitz-Holter valve, infection at the site of operation is apt to cause septicaemia.We are describing here five cases in which the problems of chemotherapy were closely studied, because (1) the valves were controlling the hydrocephalus perfectly, (2) the removal of the valve renders that internal jugular vein unsuitable for use later should a further shunt be required, and (3) the infants were not uncontrollably ill with the septicaemia.The clinical and the bacteriological approach to this study are described in separate publications (Cohen and Callaghan, 1961 Stewart, 1961).