Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) in Combination with Recanalization of Portal and Superior Mesenteric Vein Thrombosis Ensured Hassab's Operation for High-Risk Esophago-Gastric Varices

Abstract

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a well-recognized complication of liver cirrhosis (LC) and often induces severe portal hypertension, refractory ascites and variceal bleeding. We report on a case of refractory ascites and high-risk esophago-gastric varices due to extensive PVT. The patient's refractory ascites prevented surgical intervention to improve his hemodynamic status. We thus performed a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) and balloon dilatation of the occluded segment. After this procedure, the patient's ascites disappeared rapidly and we could carry out the required surgical procedure safely.