[Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt for the treatment cavernous transformation of the portal vein with vareceal bleeding].

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt(TIPS) for the treatment of patients with cavernous transformation of portal vein (CTPV) with vareceal bleeding.

Methods

From September 2016 to June 2018, a total of 21 patients suffered CTPV complicated with vareceal bleeding were admitted to First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University. TIPS were performed combined with percutaneous transhepatic portal vein assist. There were 13 males and 8 females, with an average age of 27-67 (48±11) years. Blood routine examination, liver function test, blood ammonia and ultrasound Doppler were conducted 1,3,6 months after operation, and every 6 months during follow-up. Abdominal enhanced CT and digital substraction angiography were followed every year.

Results

TIPS were successfully performed in 19 cases (90.5%), esophageal and gastric varices were embolized in 17 cases; 2 cases failed to selective catheterized, then endoscopic therapy was performed.All bleeding stopped after operation. The pressure of portal vein decreased from 25.0-44.0 (33.7±5.4) mmHg (1 mmHg=0.133 kPa) to 17.0-30.0 (24.5±3.1) mmHg, portosystemic pressure gradient decreased from 16.0-32.0 (23.5±4.6) mmHg to 9.0-15.0 (11.4±1.9) mmHg after TIPS (all P<0.05). During 3-24 months follow-up, 2 patients suffered from hepatic encephalopathy, 3 patients had recurrent upper gastrointestinal bleeding, including 1 duodenal ulcer and 2 esophageal varices. In-stent restenosis were found in 6 patients,in which 3 patients underwent shunt revision operation. At the end of the follow-up, the cumulative patency was 16/19.

Conclusion

For patients with CTPV and vareceal bleeding, TIPS could reduce portal hypertension while embolizing varicose veins.It is a safe and effective treatment.