Homonym: Shunt (Divert)
A shunt is a medical device or procedure that creates a pathway for fluid to flow from one area of the body to another. It is commonly used to relieve pressure caused by excess fluid, such as in conditions like hydrocephalus, where cerebrospinal fluid accumulates in the brain. Shunts can be made from various materials and are designed to be biocompatible.
In addition to medical uses, the term "shunt" can also refer to electrical components that redirect current. In this context, a shunt allows a portion of the electrical current to bypass a particular circuit, which can be useful for measuring current flow or protecting sensitive components.