Role of the transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in the management of severe complications of portal hypertension in idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension

French guidelines on TIPS: Indications and modalities

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) has become essential in the treatment or prevention of portal hypertension-related complications. In the early 1990s, the primary indication was refractory bleeding. It is now proposed for the treatment of ascites for the prevention of bleeding and in patients with vascular diseases of the liver. Thus, there are a growing number of patients being treated with TIPS all over the world. The broadening of indications, the involvement of multiple stakeholders, the need for an accurate selection, the positioning in relation to transplantation and the lack of standardization in pre-therapeutic assessment, in the procedure itself and in the follow-up have led the board of the French Association for the Study of the Liver to establish recommendations.

Porto-sinusoidal Vascular Disease and Portal Hypertension

Porto-sinusoidal vascular disease (PSVD) is the medical diagnosis for a patient who has portal hypertension in the absence of cirrhosis on liver biopsy. There are several specific histologic findings for PSVD, including obliterative portal venopathy, nodular regenerative hyperplasia, and incomplete septal fibrosis. Epidemiologic reports vary widely among regions; PSVD comprises less than 10% of causes of portal hypertension in Western countries but incidence has been found to be as high as 48% in India. There is an expansive list of etiologies that have been reported to cause PSVD.

A Clinical Case of Timely Diagnosis and Successful Treatment of Budd-Chiari Syndrome With Fulminant Cytolysis in the Setting of a First-time Diagnosed Myeloproliferative Disease

The article presents a clinical case of peculiarities of clinical manifestations, diagnostic and therapeutic approaches of undiagnosed chronic myeloproliferative disease, on the background of which Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) developed. The results of clinical course, examination, and treatment of a patient with BCS as a manifestation of the hidden course of primary myelofibrosis with the presence of somatic mutation (V617F) in Janus-tyrosine kinase-2 (JAK2) gene in myeloid cells are presented. Standard clinical and laboratory examinations, and cytomorphologic and histologic examination of bone marrow were used. The diagnosis of BCS was confirmed by ultrasound (US) Doppler examination of the portal system vessels. Symptomatic therapy resulted in insignificant positive results. The analysis of this clinical case showed that the development of BCS was due to a chronic myeloproliferative disease that was not diagnosed before the development of thrombosis. Hepatic vein thrombosis was accompanied by the development of fulminant cytolytic syndrome. Along with symptomatic therapy, patient K., female, 32 years old, underwent transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunting 1 month after the first symptoms of BCS appeared, which contributed to a significant clinical effect. Seven years after the installation of 4 transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts, the patient's condition remains satisfactory. The uniqueness of this clinical case lies in the presence of 2 serious diseases at the same time: myeloproliferative pathology (primary myelofibrosis) JAK2-positive variant and BCS. Timely diagnosis of both hematological diseases and their complication in the form of hepatic vein thrombosis with fulminant cytolytic syndrome allowed timely prescription of adequate treatment with a good clinical response.

[Portosinusoidal vascular disorder: A paradigm shift]

The term portosinusoidal vascular disorder (PSVD) refers to a clinical-pathological entity that encompasses those patients with intrahepatic vascular damage without cirrhosis at risk of developing severe complications of portal hypertension. Numerous systemic diseases, genetic disorders, and toxic agents have been associated with this pathology, making its diagnosis an important clinical challenge. The recent description of uniform diagnostic criteria and a better understanding of its pathophysiology will allow for better identification of patients, even in early stages of the disease. Although there is currently no effective etiological treatment available, early diagnosis allows for the development of preventive strategies for some severe complications of portal hypertension.

Abdominal surgery in patients with chronic noncirrhotic extrahepatic portal vein obstruction: A multicenter retrospective study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

In patients with noncirrhotic chronic extrahepatic portal vein obstruction (EHPVO), data on the morbimortality of abdominal surgery are scarce.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

We retrospectively analyzed the charts of 76 patients (78 interventions) with EHPVO undergoing abdominal surgery within the Vascular Disease Interest Group network. Fourteen percent of the patients had ≥1 major bleeding (unrelated to portal hypertension) and 21% had ≥1 Dindo-Clavien grade ≥3 postoperative complications within 1 month after surgery. Fifteen percent had ≥1 portal hypertension-related complication within 3 months after surgery. Three patients died within 12 months after surgery. An unfavorable outcome (ie, ≥1 abovementioned complication or death) occurred in 37% of the patients and was associated with a history of ascites and with nonwall, noncholecystectomy surgical intervention: 17% of the patients with none of these features had an unfavorable outcome, versus 48% and 100% when one or both features were present, respectively. We then compared 63/76 patients with EHPVO with 126 matched (2:1) control patients without EHPVO but with similar surgical interventions. As compared with control patients, the incidence of major bleeding ( p <0.001) and portal hypertension-related complication ( p <0.001) was significantly higher in patients with EHPVO, but not that of grade ≥3 postoperative complications nor of death. The incidence of unfavorable postoperative outcomes was significantly higher in patients with EHPVO than in those without (33% vs. 18%, p =0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with EHPVO are at high risk of major perioperative or postoperative bleeding and postoperative complications, especially in those with ascites or undergoing surgery other than wall surgery or cholecystectomy.

Outcomes of Proximal Spleno-Renal Shunt Operations for Idiopathic Portal Hypertension in Tertiary Hospital in the Sub-Sahara

Purpose

Idiopathic portal hypertension (IPH) also known as non-cirrhotic portal hypertension is an entity of hepatic conditions including disorders of blood vessels that leads to portal hypertension (PHT). Current management of PHT includes medical or endoscopic therapy. A proximal spleno-renal shunt (PSRS) operation has been shown to improve the outcomes of patients with IPH with upper gastrointestinal bleeding refractory to medical and endoscopic therapy in high income countries but the same has not been well described in our resource limited setting.

Patients and methods

This study consecutively included patients who were diagnosed with IPH on pre-operative imaging and underwent PSRS surgery. Data on four patients across the time period of 3 years was obtained with a male to female ratio of 1:1 and age range of 7 to 34 years.

Results

All patients in this study had features of upper gastrointestinal bleeding and, after an endoscopy they were all diagnosed with grade IV esophageal varices. Symptom duration prior to admission varied between 3 months to 8 years. All these patients had multiple episodes of rebleeding varices with recurrent admissions and were managed conservatively by multiple blood transfusions and propranolol tablets, pre-operatively. Only one patient had previous variceal band ligation done though he developed rebleeding. All four patients underwent both PSRS surgery and splenectomy and were intra-operatively verified to have a normal smooth liver and thus IPH was the cause of the esophageal varices. After an average follow-up period of 26.5 months, we found that all patients were alive with early symptomatic relief, no recurrent bleeding and no long-term complications.

Conclusion

Good outcomes were achieved in terms of symptom resolution, endoscopic variceal resolution at follow-up endoscopy, length of stay ranging from 8 to 15 days and all four patients were alive at the time of follow-up, that ranged from 14 to 46 months.

Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt in Nonmalignant Noncirrhotic Portal Vein Thrombosis and Portosinusoidal Vascular Disorder

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) emerges as a key treatment for portal hypertension (PH) complications. While international guidelines provide clear indications for its use in cirrhosis, empirical knowledge is notably scarcer in non-cirrhotic PH, particularly in nonmalignant noncirrhotic portal vein thrombosis (NNPVT) and in patients with portosinusoidal vascular disorder (PSVD). Patients afflicted by these rare diseases exhibit distinct clinical profiles compared to their cirrhotic counterparts, often characterized by a younger age, predominantly preserved hepatic functionality even in cases of severe PH, and a higher propensity for extensive splanchnic thrombosis, which intricately complicates TIPS placement, posing unique challenges for its creation. The objective of this review is to synthesize existing literature on the effectiveness, safety, specific indications, and clinical outcomes of TIPS in adult patients with NNPVT or PSVD, focusing also on the technical challenges of TIPS insertion in the presence of portal cavernoma.

Post-Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) Hepatic Encephalopathy-A Review of the Past Decade's Literature Focusing on Incidence, Risk Factors, and Prophylaxis

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is an established treatment for portal hypertension and its' complications in liver cirrhosis, yet the development of hepatic encephalopathy (HE) remains a significant concern. This review covers the reported incidence, risk factors, and management strategies for post-TIPS HE over the past decade. Incidence varies widely (7-61%), with factors like age, liver function, hyponatremia, and spontaneous portosystemic shunts influencing risk. Procedural aspects, including TIPS timing, indication, and stent characteristics, also contribute. Pharmacological prophylaxis with lactulose and rifaximin shows promise, but current evidence is inconclusive. Procedural preventive measures, such as shunt embolization and monitoring portal pressure gradients, are explored. Treatment involves pharmacological options like lactulose and rifaximin, and procedural interventions like stent diameter reduction. Ongoing studies on novel predictive markers and emerging treatments, such as faecal microbiota transplant, reflect the evolving landscape in post-TIPS HE management. This concise review provides clinicians with insights into the multifaceted nature of post-TIPS HE, aiding in improved risk assessment, prophylaxis, and management for patients undergoing TIPS procedures.

Management of liver disease and portal hypertension in common variable immunodeficiency (CVID)

Patients with common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) frequently develop liver disease and associated complications, which represent an increasingly prevalent unmet medical need. The main hepatic manifestation of CVID is nodular regenerative hyperplasia (NRH), resulting in non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (NCPH). Liver disease is often underdiagnosed, leading to poor outcomes and decreased survival. The increasing numbers of patients with CVID who are diagnosed late with progressive liver disease underscores the importance of appropriate clinical management and treatment of liver complications. At the same time, specific guidelines for the clinical management of CVID-related liver disease are still lacking. Here, we review the epidemiology of CVID-related liver disease, reveal new insights into NRH and NCPH biology and highlight recently uncovered opportunities for NCPH diagnostics in CVID. Finally, we focus on current management of liver disease, portal hypertension and its complications - the key challenge in patients with CVID. Specifically, we review recent data regarding the role of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt and liver transplantation in clinical management. The role for anticoagulants and immunosuppressants targeting the pathogenesis of NRH will also be discussed. We propose an updated algorithm for the diagnostic work-up and treatment of NCPH in CVID. Finally, we consider future needs and therapeutic opportunities for CVID-related liver disease.

A Narrative Review on Non-Cirrohotic Portal Hypertension: Not All Portal Hypertensions Mean Cirrhosis

Non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (NCPH), also known as idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (INCPH) and porto-sinusoidal vascular disorder (PSVD), is a rare disease characterized by intrahepatic portal hypertension (IPH) in the absence of cirrhosis. The precise etiopathogenesis of IPH is an area of ongoing research. NCPH diagnosis is challenging, as there are no specific tests available to confirm the disease, and a high-quality liver biopsy, detailed clinical information, and an expert pathologist are necessary for diagnosis. Currently, the treatment of NCPH relies on the prevention of complications related to portal hypertension, following current guidelines of cirrhotic portal hypertension. No treatment has been studied that aimed to modify the natural history of the disease; however, transjugular intrahepatic porto-systemic shunt (TIPS) placement, shunt and liver transplantation are considerable symptomatic options. In this review, we discuss the heterogeneity of NCPH as well as its etiopathogenesis, clinical presentation and management issues. Starting from the assumption that portal hypertension does not always mean cirrhosis, cooperative studies are probably needed to clarify the issues of etiology and the possible genetic background of this rare disease. This knowledge might lead to better treatment and perhaps better prevention.

Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt is effective to treat portal hypertension due to sinusoidal obstructive syndrome

Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) is an established procedure for the complications of portal hypertension, such as variceal bleeding, refractory ascites and hepatic hydrothorax. We report an original case of a renal transplant patient successfully treated with TIPS for portal hypertension due to sinusoidal obstructive syndrome (SOS) induced by azathioprine (AZA). By reporting this case, we wish to draw the attention of healthcare professionals managing organ transplant patients, especially nephrologists, to the possible occurrence of liver toxicity due to AZA, and to emphasize the role of TIPS as an effective therapeutic option for portal hypertension-related complications.

New Indications for TIPSs: What Do We Know So Far?

Since 1988, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) has been an effective therapy for portal hypertension in many settings. Thanks to continuous technical improvements and a wiser selection of patients, excellent results have been achieved with this therapeutic strategy. The historical indications for TIPS placement, in the context of liver cirrhosis, such as refractory ascites and variceal bleeding are now well established and known. However, in recent years, new indications are emerging. These have been investigated and approved in some studies but are not yet included in guidelines and clinical practice. This review aims to highlight what is new for the role of TIPS in portal vein thrombosis (especially in patients awaiting liver transplantation), in recurrent ascites and not only refractory ascites, as a neoadjuvant therapy before abdominal surgery and, finally, in the setting of noncirrhotic portal hypertension. All these new aspects are addressed in this review with a critical approach based on the literature revision and clinical practice. Future research is needed to explore and validate the new role of TIPS in these scenarios.

Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Vascular Liver Diseases: Focus on Thrombosis

Vascular liver disorders (VLDs) comprise a wide spectrum of clinical-pathological entities that primarily affect the hepatic vascular system of both cirrhotic and non-cirrhotic patients. VLDs more frequently involve the portal and the hepatic veins, as well as liver sinusoids, resulting in an imbalance of liver homeostasis with serious consequences, such as the development of portal hypertension and liver fibrosis. Surprisingly, many VLDs are characterized by a prothrombotic phenotype. The molecular mechanisms that cause thrombosis in VLD are only partially explained by the alteration in the Virchow's triad (hypercoagulability, blood stasis, and endothelial damage) and nowadays their pathogenesis is incompletely described and understood. Studies about this topic have been hampered by the low incidence of VLDs in the general population and by the absence of suitable animal models. Recently, the role of coagulation imbalance in liver disease has been postulated as one of the main mechanisms linked to fibrogenesis, so a novel interest in vascular alterations of the liver has been renewed. This review provides a detailed analysis of the current knowledge of molecular mechanisms of VLD. We also focus on the promising role of anticoagulation as a strategy to prevent liver complications and to improve the outcome of these patients.

Liver Transplantation for Porto-sinusoidal Vascular Liver Disorder: Long-term Outcome

BACKGROUND

Porto-sinusoidal vascular liver disorder (PSVD) is a rare disease that occasionally requires liver transplantation (LT), despite usually presenting preserved liver function. There remains a paucity of data pertaining to LT in PSVD. The aim was to identify features associated with post-LT outcomes in PSVD.

METHODS

Retrospective multicentre study of 79 patients who received LT for PSVD.

RESULTS

Median post-LT follow-up was 37 (range 1-261) mo. Refractory ascites 24 (30%), hepatic encephalopathy 16 (20%), and hepatopulmonary syndrome 13 (16.3%) were the most frequent indications for LT. Hepatocellular carcinoma was the indication in only 2 patients. Twenty-four patients died, 7 due to liver and 17 to non-liver related causes. Post-LT survival was 82.2%, 80.7%, and 68.6% at 1, 2, and 5 y, respectively. Post-LT survival was significantly better in patients without (n = 58) than in those with a persistent severe PSVD-associated condition (n = 21). Pre-LT hyperbilirubinemia levels and creatinine >100 µmol/L were also independently associated with poor survival. Six patients (7.6%) required a second LT. Recurrence of PSVD was confirmed by liver biopsy in only 1 patient and in 3 further patients it was likely.

CONCLUSIONS

LT in PSVD is associated with an acceptable outcome in the absence of associated severe conditions. However, persistence of a severe associated condition, pre-LT high bilirubin levels, or creatinine >100 µmol/L impact outcome, and these are features that should be considered when evaluating PSVD patients for LT. PSVD recurrence is possible after LT and needs to be explored, at least, in cases of posttransplant portal hypertension.

Comparison of long-term outcomes of splenectomy with periesophagogastric devascularization and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in treating cirrhotic portal hypertension patients with recurrent variceal bleeding

PURPOSE

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) and splenectomy with periesophagogastric devascularization (SPD) are widely used to treat cirrhotic portal hypertension (PH) and prevent variceal rebleeding. However, direct comparisons between these two approaches are rare. This study was designed to compare the long-term outcomes of TIPS and SPD in patients with cirrhotic PH and variceal rebleeding.

METHODS

The study included cirrhotic PH patients with a history of gastroesophageal variceal bleeding between 18 and 80 years of age who were admitted to the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from January 2012 to January 2022. Patients were enrolled into two groups according to TIPS or SPD was performed. Baseline characteristics were matched using propensity score matching (PSM).

RESULTS

A total of 230 patients underwent TIPS, while 184 underwent SPD. PSM was carried out to balance available covariates, resulting in a total of 83 patients in the TIPS group and 83 patients in the SPD group. Patients in SPD group had better liver function during 60 months follow-up. Five-year overall survival rates in SPD group and TIPS group were 72 and 27%, respectively, at 2 years were 88 and 86%, respectively. The 2- and 5-year freedom from variceal rebleeding rates were 95 and 80% in SPD group and 80 and 54% in TIPS group.

CONCLUSIONS

SPD is clearly superior to TIPS in terms of OS and freedom from variceal rebleeding in patients with cirrhotic PH. In addition, SPD improved liver function in patients with cirrhotic PH.

Idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension in a patient with Talaromyces marneffei infection: a case report

BACKGROUND

The etiopathogenesis of idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (INCPH) is so far poorly understood. Altered immunity, blood diseases, infections, congenital defects and drug exposure have been documented in a part of patients with INCPH owing to increased recognition of the disorder in patients with HIV, or various haematological disorders or autoimmune diseases. We aim to discuss the possible etiopathogenesis of INCPH.

CASE PRESENTATION

We reported that a patient with intestinal infection of T. Marneffei and hyper-IgE syndrome, a group of rare primary immunodeficiency disorders, was finally diagnosed with INCPH for gastroesophageal variceal bleeding. The diagnosis was mainly based on histopathological features. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt was performed and there was no recurrence of melena during the six-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

In the context of immunodeficiency, INCPH may associated with intestinal infections. Thus, screening for enterogenic infection and immunological disorders in patients with unexplained portal hypertension is necessary.

Portal vein thrombosis, hepatic decompensation, and survival in patients with porto-sinusoidal vascular disease and portal hypertension

BACKGROUND

Porto-sinusoidal vascular disease (PSVD) is a novel nomenclature to describe non-cirrhotic portal hypertension and characteristic histology without portal vein thrombosis (PVT). It is a more inclusive definition than the previously well-recognized entity idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension. There is a paucity of data on PSVD patients.

METHODS

A total of 33 patients diagnosed with PSVD and portal hypertension (PH) between 2005 and 2021 were included. Data were retrieved from electronic medical record system and analyzed.

RESULTS

Of the 33 patients, 6 (18%) occurred in post-transplant allograft liver. After a median follow-up of 96 months (interquartile range, IQR [52, 139]), 14 deaths occurred (42%), 4 directly related to decompensated liver disease. The Kaplan-Meier survival estimates at 1, 5, and 10 years were 94%, 87% and 58%. PVT occurred in 10 patients (30%). The Nelson-Aalen cumulative risk estimate for PVT at 1, 5 and 10 years were 16%, 25% and 48%. The median model for end-stage liver disease and Child-Pugh score at initial presentation were 8 (IQR [7-12]) and 5 [5-6], and increased to 13 [8, 18] and 7 [5, 8], respectively, at the end of follow-up. Of the 11 patients who presented with splenomegaly and no specific sign of PH, 7 (64%) developed varices and 3 (27%) ascites at a median follow-up of 100 months.

CONCLUSIONS

PSVD with PH is not a benign entity. Mortality, PVT and hepatic decompensation are common. Patients with PSVD must be closely monitored, including those who only have non-specific clinical signs (e.g., splenomegaly) of PH.

Interventional Management of Portal Hypertension in Cancer Patients

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To provide an overview of the classifications and clinical hallmarks of common cancer-related conditions that contribute to the high incidence of portal hypertension in this population and provide an update on currently available interventional radiology therapeutic approaches.

RECENT FINDINGS

In the last few decades, there have been significant advancements in understanding the pathophysiology of portal hypertension. This knowledge has led to the development of safer and more effective minimally invasive approaches. The main objective is to provide alternatives to prevent life-threatening complications from clinically significant portal hypertension and to allow the continuation of cancer treatment interventions that would otherwise be stopped. Clinicians involved in cancer care should be aware of risk factors, associated complications, and management of portal hypertension in cancer patients. Interventional radiology offers minimally invasive alternatives that play a central role in improving clinical outcomes and survival of these patients, allowing the continuation of cancer treatments.

Pathological and imaging features of idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension

Idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (INCPH), a kind of portal sinus vascular disease with unknown etiology, is characterized by the presence of clinical signs and symptoms of portal hypertension (PH) in the absence of liver cirrhosis or known risk factors accountable for PH. It has an extremely high rate of initial misdiagnosis and underdiagnosis. Liver biopsy is the only way to make a definitive diagnosis. Non-invasive modalities, such as CT imaging, are becoming a hot topic of interest in recent years. This article summarizes the pathological and CT/MRI features of INCPH and the key points of differentiation from cirrhosis, to improve clinicians' understanding of INCPH and reduce the rate of initial misdiagnosis and missed diagnoses.

North American Practice-Based Recommendations for Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunts in Portal Hypertension

Complications of portal hypertension, including ascites, gastrointestinal bleeding, hepatic hydrothorax, and hepatic encephalopathy, are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Despite few high-quality randomized controlled trials to guide therapeutic decisions, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation has emerged as a crucial therapeutic option to treat complications of portal hypertension. In North America, the decision to perform TIPS involves gastroenterologists, hepatologists, and interventional radiologists, but TIPS creation is performed by interventional radiologists. This is in contrast to other parts of the world where TIPS creation is performed primarily by hepatologists. Thus, the successful use of TIPS in North America is dependent on a multidisciplinary approach and technical expertise, so as to optimize outcomes. Recently, new procedural techniques, TIPS stent technology, and indications for TIPS have emerged. As a result, practices and outcomes vary greatly across institutions and significant knowledge gaps exist. In this consensus statement, the Advancing Liver Therapeutic Approaches group critically reviews the application of TIPS in the management of portal hypertension. Advancing Liver Therapeutic Approaches convened a multidisciplinary group of North American experts from hepatology, interventional radiology, transplant surgery, nephrology, cardiology, pulmonology, and hematology to critically review existing literature and develop practice-based recommendations for the use of TIPS in patients with any cause of portal hypertension in terms of candidate selection, procedural best practices and, post-TIPS management; and to develop areas of consensus for TIPS indications and the prevention of complications. Finally, future research directions are identified related to TIPS for the management of portal hypertension.

Contrast-enhanced CT and liver surface nodularity for the diagnosis of porto-sinusoidal vascular disorder: A case-control study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Porto-sinusoidal vascular disorder (PSVD) is a rare and commonly overlooked cause of portal hypertension. The interest of CT analysis, including quantification of liver surface nodularity (LSN) for PSVD diagnosis has not been established. This study aimed at assessing the performance of LSN and CT features for a PSVD diagnosis in patients with signs of portal hypertension.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

This retrospective case-control study included a learning cohort consisting of 50 patients with histologically proven PSVD, according to VALDIG criteria, and 100 control patients with histologically proven cirrhosis, matched on ascites. All patients and controls had at least one sign of portal hypertension and CT available within 1 year of liver biopsy. Principal component analysis of CT features separated patients with PSVD from patients with cirrhosis. Patients with PSVD had lower median LSN than those with cirrhosis (2.4 vs. 3.1, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified LSN < 2.5 and normal-sized or enlarged segment IV as independently associated with PSVD. Combination of these two features had a specificity of 90% for PSVD and a diagnostic accuracy of 84%. Even better results were obtained in an independent multicenter validation cohort including 53 patients with PSVD and 106 control patients with cirrhosis (specificity 94%, diagnostic accuracy 87%).

CONCLUSIONS

This study that included a total of 103 patients with PSVD and 206 patients with cirrhosis demonstrates that LSN < 2.5 combined with normal-sized or enlarged segment IV strongly suggests PSVD in patients with signs of portal hypertension.

Outcomes of idiopathic versus secondary nodular regenerative hyperplasia of the liver: A longitudinal study of 167 cases

BACKGROUND

Nodular regenerative hyperplasia (NRH) is a rare condition characterized clinically by the development of non-cirrhotic portal hypertension. NRH is the histopathological result in the liver of various systemic disease processes including autoimmune disorders, haematological malignancies and medications. However, natural history of this condition has been limited to small case series while patient outcomes pertaining to different aetiologies of NRH are largely unknown.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of consecutive patients diagnosed with pathology-confirmed NRH at Mayo Clinic between 2002 and 2017 was identified. The histological diagnosis of NRH was determined by expert liver pathologists. Patients with metastatic liver disease, history of liver transplantation or younger than 18 were excluded. Potential aetiologies of NRH were classified as haematological, rheumatological, drug-associated, miscellaneous or idiopathic. Long-term mortality was analysed using Kaplan-Meier estimation and Cox regression models.

RESULTS

One hundred and sixty-seven consecutive patients with pathology-confirmed NRH were analysed over a 15-year period and followed for a median time of 50 months (1-306 months). The mean age at diagnosis was 53 years. No aetiology or risk factor for NRH was identified in the majority of patients (94, 56.3%), whereas an associated, possibly causal, condition was found in 73 patients (secondary NRH). The most common presenting feature was elevated liver tests (80%), but no significant differences in laboratory tests were seen based on aetiology of NRH. Compared to idiopathic NRH, those with an identified cause had a higher rate of splenomegaly at presentation (54% vs. 27%, p = 0.002). Portal hypertension-related complications at diagnosis were common, with ascites present in one-third of patients. Overall transplant-free survival was 63% at 5 years. Median survival in idiopathic NRH was 9.4 years compared to 7.3 years in secondary NRH. Age, renal function and volume status at presentation were significantly associated with survival; however, MELD score was not.

CONCLUSIONS

The rates of liver-related complications and mortality in NRH are low, and only a small number of patients ultimately require liver transplantation. Most patients do not have an identified risk factor or aetiology for NRH, and liver-related outcomes do not appear to differ based on associated, possibly causal, conditions.

Portal vein recanalisation alone to treat severe portal hypertension in non-cirrhotic patients with chronic extrahepatic portal vein obstruction

Background & Aims

We aimed to evaluate long-term outcome of patients with chronic non-cirrhotic extrahepatic portal vein obstruction (CNC-EHPVO) who underwent portal vein recanalisation (PVR) without transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) insertion and to determine factors predicting PVR failure and stent occlusion.

Methods

This retrospective monocentric study included all patients who underwent PVR without TIPS insertion in the context of CNC-EHPVO between the years 2000 and 2019. Primary patency was defined by the absence of a complete stent occlusion on follow-up imaging.

Results

A total of 31 patients underwent PVR with a median follow-up of 52 months (24–82 months). Indications were gastrointestinal bleeding (n = 13), abdominal pain attributed to CNC-EHPVO (n = 7), prior to abdominal surgery (n = 4), and others (n = 7). Technical success was obtained in 27 patients. PVR failure was associated with extension within the intrahepatic portal veins (p = 0.005) and recanalisation for abdominal pain (p = 0.02). Adverse events occurred in 6 patients with no mortality. Anticoagulation was administered in 21 patients after technical success of PVR. In patients with technical success, 5-year primary patency was 73% and was associated with improved muscle mass (p = 0.007) and decreased spleen volume (p = 0.01) at 1 year. Furthermore, 21 (78%) patients with PVR technical success were free of portal hypertension complication at 5 years.

Conclusions

PVR without TIPS insertion was feasible and safe in selected patients with CNC-EHPVO and portal hypertension with past or expected complications. Primary patency at 5 years was obtained in 3 of 4 patients with technical success of PVR and was associated with a control of complications of CNC-EHPVO. PVR was associated with improvement of sarcopenia and decreased spleen volume at 1 year.

Lay summary

Patients with chronic obstruction of the portal vein and without cirrhosis or malignancy can develop complications related to the high pressure in the venous system. The present study reports long-term favourable outcome of patients in whom the obstruction was treated with stents.

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CNC-EHPVO with severe portal hypertension can be treated with PVR alone.

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After technical success of PVR, the 5-year primary patency is above 70%.

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After technical success of PVR, 78% of patients had complete resolution of symptoms.

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Intrahepatic extension of obstruction is associated with failure of PVR.

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Indication of PVR for abdominal pain is associated with poorer outcome.

Imaging-guided interventions modulating portal venous flow: evidence and controversies

Portal hypertension is defined by an increase in the portosystemic venous gradient. In most cases, increased resistance to portal blood flow is the initial cause of elevated portal pressure. More than 90% of cases of portal hypertension are estimated to be due to advanced chronic liver disease or cirrhosis. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts, a non-pharmacological treatment for portal hypertension, involve the placement of a stent between the portal vein and the hepatic vein or inferior vena cava which helps bypass hepatic resistance. Portal hypertension may also be a result of extrahepatic portal vein thrombosis or compression. In these cases, percutaneous portal vein recanalisation restores portal trunk patency, thus preventing portal hypertension-related complications. Any portal blood flow impairment leads to progressive parenchymal atrophy and triggers hepatic regeneration in preserved areas. This provides the rationale for using portal vein embolisation to modulate hepatic volume in preparation for extended hepatic resection. The aim of this paper is to provide a comprehensive evidence-based review of the rationale for, and outcomes associated with, the main imaging-guided interventions targeting the portal vein, as well as to discuss the main controversies around such approaches.

Portosystemic shunt is an effective treatment for complications of portal hypertension in hepatic myeloid metaplasia and improves nutritional status

In patients affected by myelofibrosis with hepatic myeloid metaplasia (HMM), portal hypertension (PHT) complications may develop. In this case series, we analysed the efficacy and safety of transjugular portosystemic shunt (TIPS) in the treatment of PHT-related complications and its effects on the nutritional status. Six patients were evaluated and the average follow-up period after TIPS was 33 (IQR 5) months. None of the patients developed hepatic failure, nor any recurrence of variceal bleeding was recorded. No additional paracentesis or endoscopic prophylactic treatment for PHT-related complications were required. In all subjects, the average dose of diuretics was almost halved three months after TIPS. Three patients died during the follow-up, but none for liver-related causes. All patients showed an improvement in the global nutritional status. In conclusion, TIPS represent an effective and safe treatment option for patients affected by complications of PHT secondary to HMM and drives to an improvement of the nutritional status.

Cognitive Impairement in Non-Cirrhotic Portal Hypertension: Highlights on Physiopathology, Diagnosis and Management

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is one of the most frequent complications of cirrhosis. Several studies and case reports have shown that cognitive impairment may also be a tangible complication of portal hypertension secondary to chronic portal vein thrombosis and to porto-sinusoidal vascular disease (PSVD). In these conditions, representing the main causes of non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (NCPH) in the Western world, both overt and minimal/covert HE occurs in a non-neglectable proportion of patients, even lower than in cirrhosis, and it is mainly sustained by the presence of large porto-systemic shunt. In these patients, the liver function is usually preserved or only mildly altered, and the development of porto-systemic shunt is either spontaneous or iatrogenically frequent; HE is an example of type-B HE. To date, in the absence of strong evidence and large cooperative studies, for the diagnosis and the management of HE in NCPH, the same approach used for HE occurring in cirrhosis is applied. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of type B hepatic encephalopathy, focusing on its pathophysiology, diagnostic tools and management in patients affected by porto-sinusoidal vascular disease and chronic portal vein thrombosis.

Combined Use of Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt and Transarterial Chemoembolization in the Treatment of Esophageal and Gastric Variceal Bleeding: A Retrospective Study of 80 Patients with Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Portal Hypertension

Background

The main cause of death in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with portal hypertension is esophageal and gastric variceal bleeding caused by severe portal hypertension; therefore, the treatment of portal hypertension is particularly important to prolong the survival of patients. The therapeutic efficacy and safety of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) combined with a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) for HCC with esophageal and gastric variceal bleeding has been rarely reported. The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical efficacy of TIPS combined with TACE in the treatment of HCC with esophageal and gastric variceal bleeding.

Material/Methods

A total of 80 patients with HCC with esophageal and gastric variceal bleeding from July 2015 to November 2019 were retrospectively investigated. Clinical outcomes, biochemical indexes, and complications were compared between TIPS plus TACE and endoscopy plus TACE treatments.

Results

Gastrointestinal rebleeding and adverse reactions (P<0.05) after TIPS combined with TACE were lower than that after endoscopy combined with TACE treatment. Furthermore, TIPS plus TACE had superior clinical outcomes than endoscopy plus TACE, which was associated with promising progression-free survival, overall survival, objective response rate, and disease control rate, and improved liver function.

Conclusions

TIPS combined with TACE was better than endoscopy combined with TACE in the treatment of patients with HCC and esophageal and gastric variceal bleeding. TIPS combined with TACE had a better therapeutic effect on improving liver function and prolonging patient survival time.

TIPS for Adults Without Cirrhosis With Chronic Mesenteric Venous Thrombosis and EHPVO Refractory to Standard-of-Care Therapy

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Extrahepatic portal vein occlusion (EHPVO) from portal vein thrombosis is a rare condition associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this study is to investigate the efficacy of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) for the treatment of chronic EHPVO, cavernomatosis, and mesenteric venous thrombosis in adults without cirrhosis who are refractory to standard-of-care therapy.

APPROACH AND RESULTS

Thirty-nine patients with chronic EHPVO received TIPS. Laboratory parameters and follow-up were assessed at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months, and every 6 months thereafter. Two hepatologists adjudicated symptom improvement attributable to mesenteric thrombosis and EHPVO before/after TIPS. Kaplan-Meier was used to assess primary and overall TIPS patency, assessing procedural success. Adverse events, radiation exposure, hospital length-of-stay and patency were recorded. Cavernoma was present in 100%, with TIPS being successful in all cases using splenic, mesenteric, and transhepatic approaches. Symptom improvement was noted in 26 of 30 (87%) at 6-month follow-up. Twelve patients (31%) experienced TIPS thrombosis. There were no significant long-term laboratory adverse events or deaths. At 36 months, freedom from primary TIPS thrombosis was 63%; following secondary interventions, overall patency was increased to 81%.

CONCLUSIONS

TIPS in chronic, noncirrhotic EHPVO with cavernomas and mesenteric venous thrombosis is technically feasible and does not adversely affect liver function. Most patients demonstrate subjective and objective benefit from TIPS. Improvement in patency rates are needed with proper timing of adjuvant anticoagulation.

Effects of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt treatment of patients with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension: Case series

RATIONALE

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is well established as an effective treatment tool for portal hypertension. However, the effects of TIPS in patients with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension have not been adequately verified in clinical trials.

PATIENT CONCERNS

To evaluate the effects of TIPS in patients with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension with or without portal vein thrombosis (PVT).

INTERVENTIONS

A total of 55 patients with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension received TIPS treatment from December 2014 to April 2018 were enrolled. Clinical data, including portal pressure, Child-Pugh score, and relevant complications were recorded.

OUTCOMES

TIPS was successfully performed in 54 patients. The overall technical success rate was 98.19% without serious technical complications. After TIPS treatment, portal pressure was significantly reduced from 38.13 ± 4.00 cmH2O to 24.14 ± 3.84 cmH2O (P < 0.05). In addition, symptoms including gastrointestinal bleeding and ascites were improved after TIPS treatment. During the 6 to 21-month follow up, hepatic encephalopathy in 15 patients (27.8%), shunt dysfunction in 5 patients (9.3%), rebleeding in 12 patients (22.2%) and deterioration of liver function in 2 patients (3.7%) were recorded. Moreover, there were no significant differences in the rates of rebleeding and hepatic encephalopathy between patients with PVT and the non-PVT group, whereas the occurrence rate of TIPS dysfunction was higher in the PVT group, but not statistically significant.

LESSONS

TIPS treatment could alleviate the symptoms of liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension in individuals with or without PVT. However, complications during follow-up should be appropriately noted and addressed with corresponding treatments.

Idiopathic Non-Cirrhotic Portal Hypertension and Porto-Sinusoidal Vascular Disease: Review of Current Data

Idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (INCPH) is a clinicopathologic disease entity characterized by the presence of clinical signs and symptoms of portal hypertension (PH) in the absence of liver cirrhosis or known risk factors accountable for PH. Multiple hematologic, immune-related, infectious, hereditary and metabolic risk factors have been associated with this disorder. Still, the exact etiopathogenesis is largely unknown. The recently proposed porto-sinusoidal vascular disease (PSVD) scheme broadens the spectrum of the disease by also including patients without clinical PH who are found to have similar histopathologic findings on core liver biopsies. Three histomorphologic lesions have been identified as specific for PSVD to include obliterative portal venopathy, nodular regenerative hyperplasia and incomplete septal cirrhosis/fibrosis. However, these findings are often subtle, under-recognized and subjective with low interobserver agreement among pathologists. Additionally, the natural history of the subclinical forms of the disease remains unexplored. The clinical course is more favorable compared to cirrhosis patients, especially in the absence of clinical PH or liver dysfunction. There are no universally accepted guidelines in regard to diagnosis and treatment of INCPH/PSVD. Hence, this review emphasizes the need to raise awareness of this entity by highlighting its complex pathophysiology and clinicopathologic associations. Lastly, formulation of standardized diagnostic criteria with clinical validation is necessary to avoid misclassifying vascular diseases of the liver and to develop and implement targeted therapeutic strategies.

Selective Esophagogastric Devascularization in the Modified Sugiura Procedure for Patients with Cirrhotic Hemorrhagic Portal Hypertension: A Randomized Controlled Trial

AIM

Portal hypertension is a series of syndrome commonly seen with advanced cirrhosis, which seriously affects patient's quality of life and survival. This study was designed to access the efficacy and safety of selective esophagogastric devascularization in the modified Sugiura procedure for patients with cirrhotic hemorrhagic portal hypertension.

METHODS

Sixty patients with hepatitis B cirrhotic hemorrhagic portal hypertension and meeting the inclusion criteria were selected and randomly divided by using computer into the selective modified Sugiura group (sMSP group, n = 30) and the modified Sugiura group (MSP group, n = 30). The primary endpoint measurement is the postoperative rebleeding rate. Secondary endpoint measurements included free portal venous pressure, liver Child-Pugh score, liver volume, portal vein width and blood flow velocity, survival rate, quality of life, and dysphagia as well as other complications one year postoperatively. This trial is registered with ChiCTR, number ChiCTR2000033468.

RESULTS

There was no statistically significant difference in rebleeding rates within one year after surgery between patients in the sMSP and MSP groups (χ = 0.11, p=0.73). In comparison with the MSP group, the Child-Pugh score of liver function in the sMSP group significantly increased (χ = 6.4, p=0.04) and the incidence of dysphagia was significantly reduced (χ = 6.23, p=0.01) one year after surgery. There was a statistically significant difference in the quality of life between the two groups. However, there were no statistically significant differences in free portal venous pressure (MD = -3.44, 95% CI: -7.87 to 0.98, p=0.12), postoperative liver volume (3 months: MD = -258.81, 95% CI: -723.21 to 205.57, p=0.24; 1 year: MD = -320.12, 95% CI: -438.43 to 102.78, p=0.16), postoperative portal vein width (3 months: MD = -0.06, p=0.50; 1 year: MD = 0.17, p=0.21), portal vein flow velocity (3 months: MD = 1.64, p=0.21; 1 year: MD = -1.19, p=0.57), 1-year survival rate (χ = 1.01, p=0.31), and other complications between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Selective esophagogastric devascularization in the modified Sugiura procedure may not lower the incidence of rebleeding in the short term based on our findings. However, it may significantly improve quality of life of patients with cirrhotic hemorrhagic portal hypertension, improve liver function, and reduce postoperative dysphagia.

Causes and Management of Non-cirrhotic Portal Hypertension​

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW

Non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (NCPH) includes a heterogeneous group of conditions. The aim of this paper is to make an overview on the denominations, diagnostical features and management of porto-sinusoidal vascular disease (PSVD) and chronic portal vein thrombosis (PVT) being the main causes of NCPH in the Western world.

RECENT FINDINGS

The management of NCPH consists in the treatment of associated diseases and of portal hypertension (PH). PH due to PSVD or PVT is managed similarly to PH due to cirrhosis. TIPS placement and liver transplantation are considerable options in patients with refractory variceal bleeding/ascites and with progressive liver failure. Anticoagulation is a cornerstone both in the treatment of thrombosis in PSVD and in the prevention of thrombosis recurrence in patients with portal cavernoma. Physicians should be aware of the existence of PSVD and chronic PVT and actively search them in particular settings. To now, the management of portal hypertension-related complications in NCPH is the same of those of cirrhosis. Large cooperative studies on the natural history of NCPH are necessary to better define its management.

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent-shunt in the management of portal hypertension

These guidelines on transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent-shunt (TIPSS) in the management of portal hypertension have been commissioned by the Clinical Services and Standards Committee (CSSC) of the British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG) under the auspices of the Liver Section of the BSG. The guidelines are new and have been produced in collaboration with the British Society of Interventional Radiology (BSIR) and British Association of the Study of the Liver (BASL). The guidelines development group comprises elected members of the BSG Liver Section, representation from BASL, a nursing representative and two patient representatives. The quality of evidence and grading of recommendations was appraised using the GRADE system. These guidelines are aimed at healthcare professionals considering referring a patient for a TIPSS. They comprise the following subheadings: indications; patient selection; procedural details; complications; and research agenda. They are not designed to address: the management of the underlying liver disease; the role of TIPSS in children; or complex technical and procedural aspects of TIPSS.

Porto-sinusoidal vascular disease: proposal and description of a novel entity

Portal hypertension in the absence of portal vein thrombosis and without cirrhosis, but with mild or moderate alterations of liver histology (eg, obliterative venopathy, nodular regenerative hyperplasia, or incomplete septal cirrhosis) is being increasingly recognised. Owing to the heterogeneity of causes and histological findings, a substantial number of terms have been used to describe such idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension. Patients with the same clinical and histological features exist, but without portal hypertension at the time of diagnosis. Therefore, improved criteria are needed to define this form of liver disease. Here, we propose the term porto-sinusoidal vascular disease, since all lesions found involve the portal venules or sinusoids. The definition of this entity is based on the characteristic absence of cirrhosis with or without signs of portal hypertension or histological lesions. The presence of known causes of liver disease does not rule out porto-sinusoidal vascular disease, but specific causes of vascular liver disease are excluded from its definition. The diagnosis of porto-sinusoidal vascular disease is based on liver biopsy and might include signs specific for portal hypertension with normal or mildly elevated liver stiffness values and no complete portal vein thrombosis. We provide simple diagnostic criteria, because agreement on a uniform nomenclature is an essential requirement for future collaborative studies.

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt and splenectomy are more effective than endoscopic therapy for recurrent variceal bleeding in patients with idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension

BACKGROUND

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS), splenectomy plus esophagogastric devascularization (SED) and endoscopic therapy + non-selective β-blockers (ET + NSBB) are widely applied in secondary prevention of recurrent gastroesophageal variceal bleeding in patients with liver cirrhosis. These different treatments, however, have not been compared in patients with idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (INCPH).

AIM

To compare the outcomes of TIPS, SED and ET + NSBB in the control of variceal rebleeding in patients with INCPH.

METHODS

This retrospective study recruited patients from six centers across China. Demographic characteristics, baseline profiles and follow-up clinical outcomes were collected. Post-procedural clinical outcomes, including incidence of rebleeding, hepatic encephalopathy (HE), portal vein thrombosis (PVT) and mortality rates, were compared in the different groups.

RESULTS

In total, 81 patients were recruited, with 28 receiving TIPS, 26 SED, and 27 ET + NSBB. No significant differences in demographic and baseline characteristics were found among these three groups before the procedures. After treatment, blood ammonia was significantly higher in the TIPS group; hemoglobin level and platelet count were significantly higher in the SED group (P < 0.01). Rebleeding rate was significantly higher in the ET + NSBB group (P < 0.01). Mortality was 3.6%, 3.8% and 14.8% in the TIPS, SED and ET + NSBB groups, respectively, with no significant differences (P = 0.082). Logistic regression analysis showed that mortality was significantly correlated with rebleeding, HE, portal thrombosis and superior mesenteric vein thrombosis (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In patients with INCPH, TIPS and SED were more effective in controlling rebleeding than ET + NSBB, but survival rates were not significantly different among the three groups. Mortality was significantly correlated with rebleeding, HE and PVT.

Porto-Sinusoidal Vascular Disease Associated to Oxaliplatin: An Entity to Think about It

Portal sinusoidal vascular disease is a presinusoidal cause of portal hypertension (PHT) of unknown etiology, characterized by typical manifestations of PHT (esophageal varices, ascites, portosystemic collaterals), plaquetopenia and splenomegaly with a gradient of portal pressure slightly increased, according to the presinusoidal nature of the PHT. A few cases in the literature have shown a relationship between oxaliplatin and the development of presinusoidal portal hypertension, years after the chemotherapy for colorectal cancer (therefore, different to sinusoidal obstruction syndrome). There are three mechanisms through which oxaliplatin can cause sinusoidal damage: (1) damage at the level of endothelial cells and stimulates the release of free radicals and depletion of glutathione transferase, with altering the integrity of the sinusoidal cells. The damage in the endothelial sinusoidal cells allows to erythrocytes to across into the Dissé space and formation of perisinusoidal fibrosis, (2) the appearance of nodular regenerative hyperplasia is favored by the chronic hypoxia of the centrilobular areas and, finally, (3) oxaliplatin can generate an obliteration of the blood capillaries and zones of parenchymal extinction. These three facts can develop, in a minority of cases, the appearance of a presinusoidal increase of portal pressure, which typically appears years after the completion of chemotherapy and sometimes is underdiagnosed until variceal bleeding, ascites or encephalopathy appear. The knowledge of this pathology is essential to be able to perform an early diagnostic and consult to the hepatologist.

Noncirrhotic Portal Hypertension: Current and Emerging Perspectives

Idiopathic portal hypertension (IPH) and extrahepatic portal venous obstruction (EHPVO) are prototype noncirrhotic causes of portal hypertension (PHT), characterized by normal hepatic venous pressure gradient, variceal bleeds, and moderate to massive splenomegaly with preserved liver synthetic functions. Infections, toxins, and immunologic, prothrombotic and genetic disorders are possible causes in IPH, whereas prothrombotic and local factors around the portal vein lead to EHPVO. Growth failure, portal biliopathy, and minimal hepatic encephalopathy are long-term concerns in EHPVO. Surgical shunts and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt resolve the complications secondary to PHT. Meso-Rex shunt is now the standard-of-care surgery in children with EHPVO.

Abdominal Surgery in Patients With Idiopathic Noncirrhotic Portal Hypertension: A Multicenter Retrospective Study

In patients with idiopathic noncirrhotic portal hypertension (INCPH), data on morbidity and mortality of abdominal surgery are scarce. We retrospectively analyzed the charts of patients with INCPH undergoing abdominal surgery within the Vascular Liver Disease Interest Group network. Forty-four patients with biopsy-proven INCPH were included. Twenty-five (57%) patients had one or more extrahepatic conditions related to INCPH, and 16 (36%) had a history of ascites. Forty-five procedures were performed, including 30 that were minor and 15 major. Nine (20%) patients had one or more Dindo-Clavien grade ≥ 3 complication within 1 month after surgery. Sixteen (33%) patients had one or more portal hypertension-related complication within 3 months after surgery. Extrahepatic conditions related to INCPH (P = 0.03) and history of ascites (P = 0.02) were associated with portal hypertension-related complications within 3 months after surgery. Splenectomy was associated with development of portal vein thrombosis after surgery (P = 0.01). Four (9%) patients died within 6 months after surgery. Six-month cumulative risk of death was higher in patients with serum creatinine ≥ 100 μmol/L at surgery (33% versus 0%, P < 0.001). An unfavorable outcome (i.e., either liver or surgical complication or death) occurred in 22 (50%) patients and was associated with the presence of extrahepatic conditions related to INCPH, history of ascites, and serum creatinine ≥ 100 μmol/L: 5% of the patients with none of these features had an unfavorable outcome versus 32% and 64% when one or two or more features were present, respectively. Portal decompression procedures prior to surgery (n = 10) were not associated with postoperative outcome. Conclusion: Patients with INCPH are at high risk of major surgical and portal hypertension-related complications when they harbor extrahepatic conditions related to INCPH, history of ascites, or increased serum creatinine.

Clinical features of idiopathic portal hypertension in China: A retrospective study of 338 patients and literature review

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Idiopathic portal hypertension (IPH) refers to a relatively rare condition characterized by intrahepatic portal hypertension in the absence of underlying disease such as liver cirrhosis.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 338 patients with IPH that were diagnosed at the pathological consultation center of our hospital.

RESULTS

The ratio of male to female patients was 1:1. Mean age at onset was 35.1 ± 16.5 years; male patients on average were 12 years younger than female patients at onset. The median duration from onset to IPH diagnosis was 12 months. In 50 patients, medication use may have been an etiological factor. The most common clinical manifestations were splenomegaly (91.3%) and hypersplenism (68.9%); 57.0% patients presented varicosis, while 25.1% patients had a history of variceal bleeding. Nodular regenerative hyperplasia was found in 22.2% liver biopsies. Among patients for whom laboratory data were available, 65.0%, 50.3%, and 71.4% patients presented leukopenia, anemia, and thrombocytopenia due to hypersplenism. Liver function was mostly in the compensated stage. Female patients showed worse leukopenia and anemia, while male patients were more likely to have abnormal serum transaminase and bilirubin levels. Sixty-seven patients received surgical or interventional treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

High-quality liver biopsy, detailed clinical information, and expert pathologist are necessary for diagnosis of IPH. IPH can occur concurrently with other liver disease such as hepatitis and drug-induced liver injury. Medication appears to be an important etiological factor for IPH in China. Management approach was largely focused on treatment of portal hypertension and its complications.

TIPSS for variceal bleeding in patients with idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension: comparison with patients who have cirrhosis

BACKGROUND

In patients with idiopathic non-cirrhotic portal hypertension (INCPH), the usual recommended strategy for management of variceal bleeding is the same as that in cirrhosis. However, this policy has been challenged by the different natural history between INCPH and cirrhosis.

AIM

To compare outcomes after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPSS) between INCPH and cirrhotic patients admitted for variceal bleeding.

METHODS

Between March 2001 and September 2015, 76 consecutive patients with biopsy-proven INCPH undergoing TIPSS for variceal bleeding in a tertiary-care centre were included. 76 patients with cirrhotic portal hypertension receiving TIPSS for variceal bleeding, and matched for age, sex, Child-Pugh class, stent type and index year of TIPSS creation served as controls.

RESULTS

Patients with INCPH, compared to those with cirrhosis, had significantly lower mortality (11% vs 36% at 5 years, adjusted HR, 0.37; 95% CI 0.15-0.87, P = 0.022), overt hepatic encephalopathy (16% vs 33% at 5 years, adjusted HR, 0.35; 95% CI 0.16-0.75, P = 0.007) and hepatic impairment, despite similar rates of further bleeding (33% vs 32% at 5 years, adjusted HR, 0.72; 95% CI 0.36-1.44, P = 0.358), and shunt dysfunction (35% vs 36% at 5 years, adjusted HR, 0.84; 95% CI 0.41-1.72, P = 0.627). These findings were consistent across different relevant subgroups.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with INCPH treated with TIPSS for variceal bleeding had similar progression of portal hypertension (further bleeding and shunt dysfunction) but fewer complications of liver disease (overt hepatic encephalopathy and hepatic insufficiency) and lower mortality rate compared with cirrhotic patients with comparable liver function.

Idiopathic Portal Hypertension

Idiopathic portal hypertension (IPH) is a rare disorder characterized by clinical portal hypertension in the absence of a recognizable cause such as cirrhosis. Laboratory tests often reveal a preserved liver function with anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia due to splenomegaly. Imaging studies reveal signs of portal hypertension, whereas liver stiffness and portal pressure values are usually normal or slightly elevated. Liver biopsy is considered mandatory in order to rule out other causes of portal hypertension, mainly cirrhosis. Liver histology may only show subtle or mild changes, and the definite diagnosis of IPH often requires an expert pathologist and a high-quality specimen. The most frequent clinical presentation is variceal bleeding. Ascites is rarely observed initially, although it may occasionally appear during follow-up. Typical histological findings associated with IPH have been described in patients without portal hypertension, probably representing early stages of the disease. Although the pathophysiology of this entity remains largely unknown, it is frequently associated with underlying immunological disorders, bacterial infections, trace metal poisoning, medications, liver circulatory disturbances, and thrombotic events. The long-term prognosis of patients with IPH, where ascites and the underlying condition are important prognostic factors, is better than in patients with cirrhosis. Treatments that modify the natural history of the disease remain an unmet need, and management of IPH is frequently restricted to control of portal hypertension-related complications.

Long-term clinical outcomes in patients with viral hepatitis related liver cirrhosis after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt treatment

Background

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedure has played a vital role in management of portal hypertension. Thus, we aimed to investigate the natural history, long-term clinical outcome, predictors of survival in viral hepatitis related cirrhotic patients post-TIPS.

Method

A total of 704 patients with complete followed-up data were enrolled, and clinical characteristics of patients were collected and analyzed. Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate survival, and comparisons were made by log rank test. A multivariate analysis of factors influencing survival was carried out using the Cox proportional hazards regression model.

Results

TIPS implatantion significantly decreased portal vein pressure with 9.77 cmH₂O reduction, without influencing long-term liver functions. The total incidence rate of major complication post-TIPS, including HE and re-bleeding/bleeding, was 37.9% and 15.5%, respectively. Patients in Child-Pugh C stage revealed higher overt hepatic encephalopathy (HE) occurrence (65.6%), while patients receiving covered, 6 mm in diameter stents indicated notably lower incidence of HE in comparison with other groups (6.4%). The median survival was > 60 months, 27.0 months, and 11.5 months in cirrhotic patients with variceal bleeding, refractory ascites, and both complications, respectively. The cumulative 5-year survival was significantly higher in patients with variceal bleeding (75.6%) in comparison with either that in patients with refractory ascites (12.5%) or that in patients with both complications (1.96%) (P < 0.0001). Covered stents usage, baseline model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score, and baseline Child-Pugh classification were predictive of survival (P < 0.001). Other variables including age, male gender, and pre-TIPS PVP were not emerged as significant predictors (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

TIPS was an effective and safe therapeutic method for decompression of portal hypertension and for treatment of its complications. Careful selection of patients with minimal liver dysfunction for TIPS implantation was essential for better long-term outcomes.