抄録
In 1974, LeVeen and associates described a pressure activated valve which has proved to be useful when incorporated into a peritoneovenous shunt in patients with intractable ascites. This pressure activated valve permits flow in one direction only, and its characteristics are such that an intraperitoneal pressure which exceeds central venous pressure by 3 to 5 centimeters of water will allow flow of ascitic fluids into the central venous system. Thus, continuous, automatic intravenous infusion of ascitic fluid is now feasible. Since July 1976, four patients with intractable ascites were treated with LeVeen's peritoneo-venous shunting. Although 3 patients died of bleeding of esophageal varices 2, 3 and 7 months after shunting, all patients demonstrated a decreased abdominal girth, decreased body weight and increased urinary output. Indication and selection of the cases for the LeVeen's peritoneo-venous shunt will have to be clarified.
