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TIPS Procedure for Portal Hypertension Portal hypertension is a condition often associated with liver diseases which cause cirrhosis. The flow of blood through the liver is constrained, and the result can be internal bleeding, accumulation of fluid int the abdomen or other serious complications. In the TIPS (short for Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt) procedure, the interventional radiologist threads a very thin tube through a tiny incision near the neck, and uses fluoroscopic images to access the blood vessels in the liver. The physician then creates a passage in the liver through which blood can flow more freely, and inserts a small device called a stent to help hold the passage open. Chemoembolization for Liver Tumors Chemoembolization is not a cure for liver cancer, but is a palliative procedure, which is designed to control the disease in the liver and retard its progression. The first step in the treatment is to assess liver function with laboratory studies and to asses the extent of disease with imaging procedures. These tests will confirm that it is possible to proceed with the procedure safely. Patients are given intravenous fluids and medications to prepare for the treatment. A small tube is inserted through a blood vessel in the groin, and travels to reach arteries supplying the liver. An x-ray called an arteriogram is performed to examine the arteries leading to the liver. Then the tube is placed in the branch of the artery supplying blood to the tumor. Chemotherapeutic agents and small particles are injected to treat the cancer and deprive the tumor of its blood supply. Following the procedure, the patient will remain in the hospital to allow continues administration of IV fluids and antibiotics. Pain medication and medication to relieve nausea will also be provided. Patients generally are hospitalized for 48 to 72 hours before discharge to home. Learn more about
interventional radiology treatments of liver disorders… Click on any of the following links to learn more about these topics: Angioplasty Contact Radiology and Nuclear Medicine at (785) 234-3451 for assistance with access to these services. |
