Sarah Fink & Hannah Peterson

2026 Next Generation Scientists Travel Award

Sarah Fink (left) and Hannah Petersen (right)

Graduate Student and Master’s Student (respectively) at University of Washington

Project Title: CSFlow: Applications of Zwitterionic Polymers to Increase the Biocompatibility and Hydrophilicity of Silicone Hydrocephalus Shunts

Hydrocephalus is predominantly treated using ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt which consists of a flexible catheter surgically inserted into the cerebral ventricle to divert excess cerebrospinal fluid from the brain. The catheter is connected to a valve that regulates flow and is routed subcutaneously to the peritoneal cavity for drainage. However, the small openings of the ventricular catheter are highly susceptible to clogging by proteins, cellular debris, and inflammatory cells that accumulate on the silicone surface over time.

This persistent risk of obstruction represents a major clinical challenge, with shunt failures frequently requiring revision surgeries and exposing patients to additional complications. Our approach addresses this issue by modifying silicone shunt surfaces with a hydrophilic carboxybetaine coating designed to reduce protein fouling and immune-driven obstruction.