A novel score predicts mortality after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt: MOTS - Modified TIPS Score

Abstract

Background and aims: The high risk for severe shunting-related post-interventional complications demands a stringent selection of candidates for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). We aimed to develop a simple and reliable tool to accurately predict early post-TIPS mortality. Methods: 144 cases of TIPS implantation were retrospectively analysed. Using univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis of factors predicting mortality within 90 days after TIPS, a score integrating urea, international normalized ratio (INR) and bilirubin was developed. The Modified TIPS-Score (MOTS) ranges from 0 to 3 points: INR >1.6, urea >71 mg/dl and bilirubin >2.2 mg/dl account for one point each. Additionally, MOTS was tested in an external validation cohort (n = 187) and its performance was compared to existing models. Results: Modified TIPS-Score achieved a significant prognostic discrimination reflected by 90-day mortality of 8% in patients with MOTS 0–1 and 60% in patients with MOTS 2–3 (p