Mallucci CL, Jenkinson MD, Conroy EJ, et al. - In this parallel, multicentre, single-blind, randomized controlled (BASICS) trial of individuals with hydrocephalus of any etiology (n = 3,505) who underwent insertion of their first ventriculoperitoneal shunt independent of age, at 21 regional adult and pediatric neurosurgery centers in the UK and Ireland, researchers ascertained the clinical and cost-efficiency of antibiotic (rifampicin and clindamycin) or silver shunts in comparison with standard shunts at decreasing infection. A total of 1,605 people were randomized to receive either a standard shunt (n = 536), antibiotic-impregnated shunt (n = 538), or a silver shunt (n = 531). In UK people who are having their first ventriculoperitoneal shunt insertion, evidence to encourage the adoption of antibiotic shunts was found. Hence, this practice would profit individuals of all ages by decreasing the risk and harm of shunt infection.