Abstract
Purpose: Portal vein thrombosis (PVT), is seen in about 25% of patients with cirrhosis. Chronic portal vein thrombosis can significantly alter anatomy, often leading to the diversion of splanchnic blood into expansive and compliant vascular channels. This process generates extensive collateral networks and large varices that function as portosystemic shunts. Portal cavernous transformation represents a critical vascular condition marked by the formation of a network of collateral veins that develops to bypass an obstructed portal vein [PV]. Given these physiological changes, performing liver transplantation is associated with higher morbidity and mortality rates. We present an early, single-center experience for portal vein reconstruction (PVR) and the creation of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) to increase transplant candidacy in such patients.
Material and Methods: Retrospectively, data was obtained from the Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) and Hospital Information System (HIS) from a single center between January 2016 to January 2024. In total, 15 patients with obliterative main portal vein thrombosis were selected. These patients underwent Percutaneous transhepatic portal vein recanalization with transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt to increase their transplant eligibility after a collaborative imaging examination by transplant surgery and interventional radiology team. Up until liver transplant LT, patients were monitored in the hepatology/transplant clinic, and thereafter in the posttransplant clinic. To confirm portal vein PV patency, serial ultrasound/Dynamic computed tomography/magnetic resonance imaging was done.
Results: Portal vein recanalization with transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt was performed in 15 patients. Technical success, defined as the maintenance of patency in both the portal vein and the transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt at the conclusion of the procedure, was achieved in all 15 cases (100%).
Conclusions: Patients with portal vein thrombosis may significantly benefit from portal vein recanalization with transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt, enhancing transplantation candidacy and facilitating physiologic end-to-end anastomoses.
