Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts in liver transplant recipients: Technical considerations and review of the literature

Abstract

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is an accepted therapeutic option for the treatment of complications of portal hypertension, such as refractory variceal bleeding, refractory ascites, refractory hepatic hydrothorax and Budd-Chiari syndrome, in cirrhotic livers. However, portal hypertension is uncommon after liver transplantation, and when it occurs, it has been related to hepatic vein outflow obstruction, small liver donor size, rejection, or recurrence of the original disease. There are few reports in the literature addressing TIPS experience in liver transplant patients. This review will address the published experience of TIPS procedures in liver transplant patients, including indications, technical issues, complications, and outcomes. Copyright © 2005 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.