What is TIPS procedure for ascites?

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is a procedure that may be used to reduce portal hypertension and its complications, especially variceal bleeding. A TIPS procedure may be done by a radiologist, who places a small wire-mesh coil (stent) into a liver vein.

How does the TIPS procedure work?

How does the procedure work? A TIPS reroutes blood flow in the liver and reduces abnormally high blood pressure in the veins of the stomach, esophagus, bowel and liver, reducing the risk of bleeding from enlarged veins across the esophagus and stomach.

How long can you live after a TIPS procedure?

According to an older randomized trial, 88% of people with cirrhosis and variceal bleeding who received TIPS survived for 2 years, and 61% survived for at least 5 years. A more recent analysis of TIPS procedures in one hospital found that 78.2% of patients survived longer than 90 days after the procedure.

Does TIPS procedure cause confusion?

When TIPS is performed, the TIPS will allow toxin-containing blood with ammonia to bypass your liver. This may affects your brain in a way that may cause confusion or even comma.

Is TIPS a procedure?

​TIPS—T-I-P-S—is a procedure that lowers pressure in the portal vein. That’s the vein that moves blood to your liver. The medical name for this procedure is transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt.

Who qualifies for TIPS procedure?

Accepted indications for TIPS include the following:

• Uncontrolled variceal hemorrhage from esophageal, gastric, and intestinal varices that do not respond to endoscopic and medical management.
• Refractory ascites.
• Hepatic pleural effusion (hydrothorax)

How long does TIPS procedure take?

The procedure usually takes about 2 to 3 hours, but it can take longer. Will TIPS work well for me?

How long is TIPS procedure?

What are the side effects of TIPS procedure?

Possible risks with this procedure are:

• Damage to blood vessels.
• Fever.
• Hepatic encephalopathy (a disorder that affects concentration, mental function, and memory, and may lead to coma)
• Infection, bruising, or bleeding.
• Reactions to medicines or the dye.
• Stiffness, bruising, or soreness in the neck.

What to expect after a TIPS procedure?

Generally there is about 4 hours of bed rest after the procedure. The neck and stomach may be sore. The neck may bruise or have some swelling. These symptoms will go away in a week or less and generally require no treatment.

How long is a TIPS procedure?

After the procedure, a small bandage is placed over the neck area. There are usually no stitches. The procedure takes about 60 to 90 minutes to complete.

Is a TIPS procedure safe?

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of complications of liver cirrhosis, such as refractory ascites, hepatic hydrothorax and refractory variceal bleeding.

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