Is it possible to tell if a vp shunt is functioning on an mri? can they see if the fluid is still flowing through it?

Well enough, yes.: The main determinant of whether a shunt is working is whether or not the ventricles of the brain (the chambers containing spinal fluid) are too big, too small, or "just right". Both ct and MRI can make this assessment quickly and easily. Neither technique has the capacity to actually see flow through the shunt. If the shunt is not working, other imaging tests come into play.

Yes and No: Mri cannot see if there is current flow through the shunt, but it does show the size of the ventricles and if the ventricles are larger than prior study then it may not be functioning well or not at all. Also beware that the programmable shunts are sensitive to magnetic field and needs to be reprogrammed after exposure to magnet.

No: Not a reliable way to evaluate a shunt.