TIPS is a useful long-term derivative therapy for patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome uncontrolled by medical therapy

TEN-YEAR OUTCOMES OF TIPS FOR BUDD-CHIARI SYNDROME: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS

BACKGROUND

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) results from the obstruction of the hepatic venous flow, usually at the level of the hepatic vein or inferior vena cava. When left untreated, it can progress with several complications, including liver cirrhosis. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) appears to be effective in a subgroup of BCS patients.

OBJECTIVE

To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of TIPS effectiveness in BCS treatment, considering the survival rate, reduction in portosystemic pressure, need for liver transplantation, technical failure, and shunt dysfunction for up to 10 years of follow-up.

METHODS

We evaluated 17 studies published in PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, and SCOPUS databases, which used TIPS as a treatment for BCS, comprising 618 subjects between 18 and 78 years old. We assessed the bias risk by the NOS, NHI, and JBI scales for cohort stu-dies, before-after studies, and case series, respectively. We conducted the meta-analyses by extracting the number of events and the total patients evaluated to perform the proportion meta-analyses using the R software ("meta" package - version 4.9-6).

RESULTS

The pooled results (95%CI) showed a 19% (25.9-12.5%) rate of portosystemic pressure reduction, 6% (1-12%) rate for the need for liver transplants despite the use of TIPS, 2% (1-6%) technical failure rate, 30% (18-46%) shunt dysfunction rate, and 88% (81-93%) for the mean frequency of patients alive between 1 and 10 years after the procedure. We stratified survival rate and found an 86% (74-93%) prevalence of living subjects during less than five years, 92% (83-97%) at five years, and a 77% frequency (68-83%) of patients alive ten years after the TIPS placement.

CONCLUSION

TIPS is an effective treatment for BCS, providing a high 10-year frequency of living patients and a significant decrease in portosystemic pressure. The need for liver transplants after TIPS and the technical failure rate is low.

Hepatic, gastric and bone marrow AL amyloidosis that began with Budd-Chiari syndrome: a case report

Amyloid Light Chain (AL) Amyloidosis is a rare disorder of protein misfolding and metabolism characterized by insoluble fibrils deposition in various tissues and organs, which could quickly progress and become fatal. The most frequently affected organ is heart being its involvement the most adverse prognostic feature. Kidney and liver could be other organ localizations, defining AL Amyloidosis as a multisystem disorder. Being Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) an uncommon congestive hepatopathy caused by blockage of hepatic veins in the absence of cardiac disorders, it could be rarely caused by a massive deposition of amyloid proteins into hepatic sinusoidal spaces, giving an uncommon clinical presentation of AL Amyloidosis.

Comparison of Balloon-Occluded Thrombolysis with Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis in Patients of Budd-Chiari Syndrome with Occluded Direct Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt

Objectives  Direct intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (DIPS) stent placement is an effective treatment for patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS); however, thrombotic occlusion of DIPS stent remains a cause of concern. The purpose of this study is to describe a novel technique of balloon-occluded-thrombolysis (BOT) for occluded DIPS stent, and compare it with the conventional catheter-directed-thrombolysis (CDT). Methods  In this retrospective study, the hospital database was searched for BCS patients who underwent DIPS revision for thrombotic stent occlusion between January 2015 and February 2021. Patients were divided into CDT group and BOT group. The groups were compared for technical success, total dose of thrombolytic agent administered, duration of hospital stay, and primary assisted stent patency rates at 1- and 6-month follow-up. Results  CDT was performed in 12 patients, whereas 21 patients underwent BOT. Complete recanalization was achieved in 66.7% (8 of 12) patients of CDT group as compared to 81% (17 of 21) patients of BOT group (nonsignificant difference, p  = 0.420). BOT group had a short hospital stay (1.8 ± 0.7 vs. 3.5 ± 1.0 days) and required less dose of thrombolytic agent ([2.2 ± 0.4]x10 5 IU versus [8.3 ± 2.9]x10 5 IU of urokinase) as compared to the CDT group and both differences were statistically significant ( p  < 0.001). Further, 6-month patency rate was higher in BOT group as compared to CDT group ( p  = 0.024). Conclusion  The novel BOT technique of DIPS revision allows longer contact time of thrombolytic agent with the thrombi within the occluded stent. This helps in achieving fast recanalization of thrombosed DIPS stent with a significantly less dose of thrombolytic agent required, thus reducing the risk of systemic complications associated with thrombolytic administration.

Budd-Chiari syndrome in children: Challenges and outcome

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is an uncommon disease of the liver, characterised by obstruction of the hepatic venous outflow tract. The etiological spectrum of BCS as well as venous obstruction pattern show wide geographical and demographic variations across the globe. Compared to adults with BCS, children have primary BCS as the predominant etiology, earlier clinical presentation, and hence better treatment outcome. Underlying prothrombotic conditions play a key role in the etiopathogenesis of BCS, though work-up for the same is often unyielding in children. Use of next-generation sequencing in addition to conventional tests for thrombophilia leads to better diagnostic yield. In recent years, advances in radiological endovascular intervention techniques have revolutionized the treatment and outcome of BCS. Various non-invasive markers of fibrosis like liver and splenic stiffness measurement are being increasingly used to assess treatment response. Elastography techniques provide a novel non-invasive tool for measuring liver and splenic stiffness. This article reviews the diagnostic and therapeutic advances and challenges in children with BCS.

Interventional Treatment of Budd-Chiari Syndrome

Medical treatment is regarded as the primary course of action in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). Its efficacy, however, is limited, and most patients require interventional treatment during follow-up. Short-segment stenosis or the occlusion (the so-called web) of hepatic veins or the inferior vena cava are frequent in Asian countries. An angioplasty with or without stent implantation is the treatment of choice to restore hepatic and splanchnic blood flow. The long-segment thrombotic occlusion of hepatic veins, common in Western countries, is more severe and may require a portocaval shunting procedure to relieve hepatic and splanchnic congestion. Since it was first proposed in a publication in 1993, the transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) has gained more and more attention, and in fact it has been so successful that previously utilized surgical shunts are only used for few patients for whom it does not work. Both interventional treatment options can be performed successfully in about 95% of patients even after the complete obliteration of the hepatic veins. The long-term patency of the TIPS, a considerable problem in its early years, has been improved with PTFE-covered stents. The complication rates of these interventions are low and the survival rate is excellent with five- and ten-year survival rates of 90% and 80%, respectively. Present treatment guidelines recommend a step-up approach indicating interventional treatment after the failure of medical treatment. However, this widely accepted algorithm has several points of contention, and early interventional treatment is proposed instead.

Budd-Chiari Syndrome Management: Controversies and Open Issues

Budd-Chiari Syndrome (BCS) is due to thrombosis of hepatic veins (HVs), inferior vena cava (IVC) or both, leading to impaired hepatic venous outflow [...].

Efficacy and Safety of Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Creation for Budd-Chiari Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PURPOSE

To assess the critical role of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) in the management of Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS), as the data with respect to the safety and outcome of TIPS in patients with BCS are scarce because of the rarity of the disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive search of literature of various databases from 2000 to October 2021 was conducted for studies evaluating the outcome of TIPS in patients with BCS. The primary outcomes of the analysis were technical and clinical success, adverse events and mortality associated with TIPS, dysfunction of TIPS, need for TIPS revision, need for liver transplantation (LT), and 1-year survival.

RESULTS

A total of 33 studies (1,395 patients) were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled rates and 95% confidence intervals of various outcomes were 98.6% (97.6-99.7) for technical success, 90.3% (86.0-94.6) for clinical success, 10.0% (6.5-13.6) for major adverse events, 0.5% (0.2-1.0) for TIPS-related mortality, 11.6% (7.8-15.4) for post-TIPS hepatic encephalopathy (HE), 40.1% (32.5-47.7) for TIPS dysfunction, 8.6% (4.9-12.4) for the need for TIPS revision, 4.5% (2.8-6.2) for the need for LT, and 94.6% (93.1-96.1) for 1-year survival. Publication bias was seen with all outcomes except for post-TIPS HE, TIPS dysfunction, and the need for LT.

CONCLUSIONS

The existing literature supports the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of TIPS in the treatment of BCS. Deciding the optimal timing of TIPS in BCS needs further studies.

The Albumin-bilirubin Score Detects Changes in the Liver Function during Treatment for Budd-Chiari Syndrome: A Retrospective Observational Study

Objective Mapping the long-term prognosis of Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is difficult, as the prognosis is associated with changes in the liver function. The present study evaluated the time course changes in the liver function in a treatment group with percutaneous old balloon angioplasty (POBA) and a non-treatment group using the albumin-bilirubin score (ALBI) and Child-Pugh score during long-term follow-up. Methods In this retrospective study, 13 consecutive patients diagnosed with BCS at our hospital between 2007 and 2020 were categorized into a treatment group (n=8), which received POBA, and a non-treatment group (n=5). Differences in the liver function in the ALBI and Child-Pugh scores between the initial visit and one- and three-year follow-up were calculated and statistically evaluated. We investigated the changes in the liver function during the long-term follow-up, including events such as re-stenosis and re-treatment. Results While the Child-Pugh scores in the treatment group did not differ significantly between the initial visit and 1- or 3-year follow-up, the ALBI scores in this group improved significantly between the initial visit and the 1- or 3-year follow-up visit (p=0.0078 and 0.0156, respectively). The liver function according to the ALBI score in the treatment group showed gradual improvement from the initial value but gradual worsening in the non-treatment group. The ALBI scores also revealed that the liver function varies according to re-stenosis and re-POBA in BCS patients. Conclusion Unlike the Child-Pugh score, the ALBI score was able to capture changes in the liver function of BCS patients during the long-term course of BCS.

Utility of transient elastography in evaluation and follow-up of Budd-Chiari syndrome patients after endovascular intervention

Background

Liver stiffness measurement (LSM) using transient elastography (TE) is a common noninvasive method for assessing hepatic fibrosis. The purpose of this study was to show the utility of LSM in the evaluation and short-term follow-up of Budd-Chiarri syndrome (BCS) patients as well as to investigate the relationships between LSM, hepatic venous pressure, and liver fibrosis. We conducted a prospective cohort study in which 25 patients with a confirmed diagnosis of primary BCS underwent endovascular intervention for BCS treatment. All patients had pressure gradient changes across the stenosed hepatic veins/inferior vena cava (HV/IVC) measured before and after the procedure, a transvenous liver biopsy during the procedure, and LSM (using Transient Elastography 3 days before and 3 months after the intervention as a short-term follow-up). Comparisons and correlations were made between liver stiffness, hepatic venous pressure, and fibrosis.

Results

The HV/IVC pressure gradient measured immediately before and after the intervention had a direct proportionate correlation with the LS measured 3 days before and 3 months after the intervention (r = 0.41 & 0.44, p: 0.04 & 0.03, respectively). LSM drops significantly 3 months after intervention (from 51.62 ± 22 kPa to 28.80 ± 19.25 kPa (p: 0.001)). There is a significant improvement in LSM post-intervention among patients with moderate to severe fibrosis (METAVIR scores of ≥ F2 before intervention (p: 0.001).

Conclusions

LSM in BCS patients reflects congestion rather than fibrosis stage. TE can be used for the short-term monitoring of patients with BCS following the endovascular intervention as a noninvasive tool.

Budd-Chiari syndrome: consensus guidance of the Asian Pacific Association for the study of the liver (APASL)

Budd Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a diverse disease with regard to the site of obstruction, the predisposing thrombophilic disorders and clinical presentation across the Asia-Pacific region. The hepatic vein ostial stenosis and short segment thrombosis are common in some parts of Asia-Pacific region, while membranous obstruction of the vena cava is common in some and complete thrombosis of hepatic veins in others. Prevalence of myeloproliferative neoplasms and other thrombophilic disorders in BCS varies from region to region and with different sites of obstruction. This heterogeneity also raises several issues and dilemmas in evaluation and approach to management of a patient with BCS. The opportunity to recanalize hepatic vein in patients with hepatic vein ostial stenosis or inferior vena cava stenting or pasty among those membranous obstruction of the vena cava is a unique opportunity in the Asia-Pacific region to restore hepatic outflow closely mimicking physiology. In order to address these issues arising out of the diversity as well as the unique features in the region, the Asia Pacific Association for Study of Liver has formulated these guidelines for clinicians.

An Update on the Management of Budd-Chiari Syndrome

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is an uncommon condition, caused by obstruction to hepatic venous outflow. It is largely underdiagnosed, and a high index of suspicion is required for any patient with unexplained portal hypertension. The understanding of its etiology and pathology is improving with advances in diagnostic techniques. Recent studies reported an identifiable etiology in > 80% of cases. Myeloproliferative neoplasm (MPN) is the most common etiology, and genetic studies help in diagnosing latent MPN. Better cross-sectional imaging helps delineate the site of obstruction accurately. The majority of BCS patients are now treated by endovascular intervention and anticoagulation which have improved survival in this disease. Angioplasty of hepatic veins/inferior vena cava remains under-utilized at present. While surgical porto-systemic shunts are no longer done for BCS, liver transplantation is reserved for select indications. Some of the unresolved issues in the current management of BCS are also discussed in this review.

Management of portal hypertension severe complications

Portal hypertension is a clinical syndrome characterized by an increase in the portal pressure gradient, defined as the gradient between the portal vein at the site downstream of the site of obstruction and the inferior vena cava. The most frequent cause of portal hypertension is cirrhosis. In patients with cirrhosis, portal hypertension is the main driver of cirrhosis progression and development of hepatic decompensation (ascites, variceal hemorrhage and hepatic encephalopathy), which defines the transition from compensated to decompensated stage. In decompensated patients, treatments aim at lowering the risk of death by preventing further decompensation and/or development of acute-on-chronic liver failure. Decompensated patients often pose a complex challenge which typically requires a multidisciplinary approach. The aims of the present review were to discuss the current knowledge regarding interventional treatments for patients with portal hypertension complications as well as to highlight useful information to aid hepatologists in their clinical practice. Specifically, we discussed the indications and contraindications of transjugular intra-hepatic portosystemic shunt and for the treatment of gastro-esophageal variceal hemorrhage in patients with decompensated cirrhosis (first section); we reviewed the use of interventional treatments in patients with hepatic vein obstruction (Budd-Chiari Syndrome) and in those with portal vein thrombosis (second section); and we briefly comment on the most frequent applications of selective splenic embolization in patients with and without underlying cirrhosis (third section).

Venous thrombosis of the liver: current and emerging concepts in management

Venous thrombosis within the hepatic vasculature is associated with a distinct array of risk factors, characteristics, and potential complication. As such, it entails unique management considerations and strategies relative to the more common categories of venous thromboembolic disease. Although broadly divided into thrombosis of the afferent vasculature (the portal venous system) and efferent vasculature (the hepatic venous system), presentations and management strategies within these groupings are heterogeneous. Management decisions are influenced by a variety of factors including the chronicity, extent, and etiology of thrombosis. In this review we examine both portal vein thrombosis and hepatic vein thrombosis (and the associated Budd-Chiari Syndrome). We consider those factors which most impact presentation and most influence treatment. In so doing, we see how the particulars of specific cases introduce nuance into clinical decisions. At the same time we attempt to organize our understanding of such cases to help facilitate a more systematic approach. Critically, we must recognize that although increasing evidence is emerging to help guide our management strategies, the available data remain limited and largely retrospective. Indeed, current paradigms are based largely on observational experiences and expert consensus. As new and more rigorous studies emerge, treatment strategies are likely to be continually refined, and paradigm shifts are sure to occur.

Budd-Chiari Syndrome: An Uncommon Cause of Chronic Liver Disease that Cannot Be Missed

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS), or hepatic venous outflow obstruction, is a rare cause of liver disease that should not be missed. Variable clinical presentation among patients with BCS necessitates a high index of suspicion to avoid missing this life-threatening diagnosis. BCS is characterized as primary or secondary, depending on etiology of venous obstruction. Most patients with primary BCS have several contributing risk factors leading to a prothrombotic state. A multidisciplinary stepwise approach is integral in treating BCS. Lifelong anticoagulation is recommended. Long-term monitoring of patients for development of cirrhosis, complications of portal hypertension, hepatocellular carcinoma, and progression of underlying diseases is important.

ACG Clinical Guideline: Disorders of the Hepatic and Mesenteric Circulation

Disorders of the mesenteric, portal, and hepatic veins and mesenteric and hepatic arteries have important clinical consequences and may lead to acute liver failure, chronic liver disease, noncirrhotic portal hypertension, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Although literature in the field of vascular liver disorders is scant, these disorders are common in clinical practice, and general practitioners, gastroenterologists, and hepatologists may benefit from expert guidance and recommendations for management of these conditions. These guidelines represent the official practice recommendations of the American College of Gastroenterology. Key concept statements based on author expert opinion and review of literature and specific recommendations based on PICO/GRADE analysis have been developed to aid in the management of vascular liver disorders. These recommendations and guidelines should be tailored to individual patients and circumstances in routine clinical practice.

Budd-Chiari Syndrome Associated With Hypereosinophilic Syndrome Treated by Deceased-Donor Liver Transplantation: A Case Report

INTRODUCTION

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) associated with hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) is very rare, and only a few reports have described its treatment. Furthermore, no report to date has described the performance of liver transplantation for the treatment of BCS associated with HES. We herein describe a 54-year-old man who underwent deceased-donor liver transplantation (DDLT) for treatment of BCS associated with HES.

CASE

A 54-year-old man was found to have an increased eosinophil count during a medical check-up. After exclusion of hematopoietic neoplastic diseases and secondary eosinophilia, idiopathic hypereosinophilia was diagnosed. Oral prednisolone was administered to the patient, and his eosinophil count immediately decreased to a normal level. He had an uneventful course without complications for 11 months but then presented with bloating and malaise. Imaging studies including ultrasonography, enhanced computed tomography, and angiography revealed BCS associated with HES. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt failed because of complete obstruction of the hepatic veins. Therefore, the patient was introduced to our hospital for liver transplantation. DDLT was performed with venovenous bypass 1 month after the patient was placed on the DDLT waiting list. The explanted hepatic veins were completely occluded and organized. The patient's eosinophil count was maintained at a normal level with prednisolone treatment after DDLT.

CONCLUSIONS

Liver transplantation can be a treatment option for BCS associated with HES if neoplastic diseases and secondary eosinophilia have been excluded. Life-long oral steroid therapy is required to control HES even after liver transplantation.

Usefulness of Venous Pressure Measurement in Endovascular Treatment of Budd-Chiari Syndrome: A Retrospective Cohort Study

Objective Therapeutic predictors derived from the venous pressure before therapy have not been identified for Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). The aim of this study was to determine whether or not measuring the distal pressure or pressure gradient was useful for predicting treatment efficacy in BCS. Methods We retrospectively analyzed seven consecutive patients diagnosed with symptomatic BCS at our hospital between 2008 and 2017. Distal and proximal venous pressures at occlusion sites of BCS were measured before treatment in all cases. The pressure gradient was defined as the difference between distal and proximal venous pressures. A receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis was performed for venous pressures. Results Percutaneous old balloon angioplasty (POBA) was performed in seven cases, with technical success achieved in all cases (100%). No complications were encountered. The median primary patency was 574 (interquartile range, 439.5-1,056.5) days. The 1-year primary patency rate was 71.73%. Six cases (85.7%) showed resolution of symptoms, representing clinical success. The ROC analysis revealed a high distal pressure (area under the ROC curve = 0.83, cut-off=12 mmHg) as a predictor of treatment efficacy of POBA for symptomatic BCS. In addition, the pressure gradient was considered significant from a clinical perspective, because the 6 successful cases with resolution of symptoms showed a large pressure gradient (range, 8-21 mmHg) before treatment, whereas the failed case showed a relatively small pressure gradient (7 mmHg). Conclusion High distal pressure and a large pressure gradient might predict the treatment efficacy of balloon angioplasty for symptomatic BCS.

Review article: a multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and management of Budd-Chiari syndrome

BACKGROUND

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare but fatal disease caused by obstruction in the hepatic venous outflow tract.

AIM

To provide an update of the pathophysiology, aetiology, diagnosis, management and follow-up of BCS.

METHODS

Analysis of recent literature by using Medline, PubMed and EMBASE databases.

RESULTS

Primary BCS is usually caused by thrombosis and is further classified into "classical BCS" type where obstruction occurs within the hepatic vein and "hepatic vena cava BCS" which involves thrombosis of the intra/suprahepatic portion of the inferior vena cava (IVC). BCS patients often have a combination of prothrombotic risk factors. Aetiology and presentation differ between Western and certain Asian countries. Myeloproliferative neoplasms are present in 35%-50% of European patients and are usually associated with the JAK2-V617F mutation. Clinical presentation is diverse and BCS should be excluded in any patient with acute or chronic liver disease. Non-invasive imaging (Doppler ultrasound, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging) usually provides the diagnosis. Liver biopsy should be obtained if small vessel BCS is suspected. Stepwise management strategy includes anticoagulation, treatment of identified prothrombotic risk factors, percutaneous revascularisation and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent shunt to re-establish hepatic venous drainage, and liver transplantation in unresponsive patients. This strategy provides a 5-year survival rate of nearly 90%. Long-term outcome is influenced by any underlying haematological condition and development of hepatocellular carcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

With the advent of newer treatment strategies and improved understanding of BCS, outcomes in this rare disease have improved over the last three decades. An underlying haematological disorder can be the major determinant of outcome.

Long Term Survival of Patients Undergoing TIPS in Budd-Chiari Syndrome

BACKGROUND

There has been significant improvement in understanding the etiology and management of Budd-Chiari Syndrome (BCS). Patients with chronic or acute-on-chronic BCS need radiological interventions in the form of angioplasty, hepatic vein/inferior vena cava stenting or Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS). Data regarding the long term follow up of patients undergoing TIPS is limited. We thus prospectively followed-up BCS patients who underwent TIPS at our center.

METHODS

This study included 42 patients with BCS who underwent TIPS with a covered stent between 2004 and 2014. We analyzed the etiology, symptoms, severity, laboratory parameters and imaging pre and post TIPS. All patients underwent surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma.

RESULTS

Patients demographics included 26 males and 16 females with a mean age of 40.5 years (19-68 years). The mean Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score of the entire cohort was 15.38 (range: 9-25). Thirty-four patients were grouped into Rotterdam Class 2 and remaining into Class 3. There was significant improvement in ascites, gastrointestinal bleed, renal function and transaminase levels post TIPS. There were 11 deaths over the follow-up period - 4 within one month, 2 within six months and the rest after 3 years following TIPS. Median duration from clinical presentation to TIPS was 2.1 weeks and median survival till follow-up was 45.5 months (0-130 months). 33/42 patients underwent TIPS prior to 2013, and their median survival till follow-up was 55 months. Six out of eleven deaths that occurred within six months post-TIPS were before 2006; when the technique of TIPS creation was evolving. The cumulative 1 year, 5 years and 10 years OLT-free survival was 86%, 81% and 76%, respectively. Two patients underwent a liver transplant at 4 and 7 years after TIPS.

CONCLUSION

Our results validate the role of TIPS in the management of patients with BCS. With the accessibility of TIPS, the requirement for liver transplantation has become rare.

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt as a bridge to liver transplant: Current state and future directions

Liver transplantation is one of the mainstays of treatment for liver failure due to severe chronic liver disease. Bridging therapies, such as placement of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS), are frequently employed to control complications of portal hypertension such as ascites, hydrothorax, and variceal bleeding, and thereby reduce morbidity in patients awaiting transplant. There is no significant difference seen in either graft survival or patient survival between those receiving TIPS pre-transplant and those who do not, although those receiving TIPS placement on average have a longer waiting time on the transplant waitlist. Locoregional therapies, such as thermal ablation or chemoembolization, can be efficacious in patients with HCC and pre-existing TIPS; however there is a risk for increased adverse events in patients receiving these therapies who have TIPS compared to those who do not. In summary, TIPS is a safe, effective treatment that can be used to ameliorate the complications that are sequelae of portal hypertension. While it does not appear to improve survival post-transplant, TIPS placement pre-transplant may increase survival time to transplant, thus improving overall survival as well as quality of life.

Direct Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt in Budd-Chiari Syndrome: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is an alternative interventional procedure used to manage refractory Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) when conservative medical therapy has failed. However, TIPS is not always technically successful because of hepatic vein thrombosis and inability to catheterize the hepatic veins. In these situations, direct intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (DIPS) with access to the portal vein from the IVC has been shown to be a viable alternative that may ameliorate portal hypertension in these patients. Typically, DIPS involves the use of transabdominal ultrasound to target the portal vein. Herein a case in which a 39-year-old female underwent DIPS without the use of ultrasound guidance is presented. Instead, a hepatic venogram generated using collateral circulation was used to opacify and guide access to the portal vein.

Timing of Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Stent-shunt in Budd-Chiari Syndrome: A UK Hepatologist's Perspective

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare but fatal disease caused by the obstruction in hepatic venous outflow tract (usually by thrombosis) and is further classified into two subtypes depending on the level of obstruction. Patients with BCS often have a combination of prothrombotic risk factors. Clinical presentation is diverse. Stepwise management strategy has been suggested with excellent 5-year survival rate. It includes anticoagulation, treatment of identified prothrombotic risk factor, percutaneous recanalization, and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) to reestablish hepatic venous outflow and liver transplantation in unresponsive patients. Owing to the rarity of BCS, there are no randomized controlled trials (RCTs) precisely identifying the timing for TIPS. TIPS should be considered in patients with refractory ascites, variceal bleed, and fulminant liver failure. Liver replacement is indicated in patients with progressive liver failure and in those in whom TIPS is not technically possible. The long-term outcome is usually influenced by the underlying hematologic condition and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. This review focuses on the timing and the long-term efficacy of TIPS in patients with BCS.

Image-guided treatment of Budd-Chiari syndrome: a giant leap from the past, a small step towards the future

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a relatively rare vascular disease characterized by hepatic outflow tract obstruction, and image-guided endovascular treatment, namely percutaneous angioplasty, stenting, and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS), has proven to be effective treatment modalities to alleviate symptoms and markedly improve the prognosis of the disease. Specifically, a step-wise approach is recommended, i.e., angioplasty and stenting are the prioritized choice for patients with membranous obstruction and short-length stenosis, whereas TIPS is the option for patients who fail this treatment. Currently, 5-year survival with the step-wise approach is about 75%, and the most promising way to further improve this value is to identify candidates who are at high risk of failing angioplasty, and perform pre-emptive TIPS in these patients.

Role of radiological imaging and interventions in management of Budd-Chiari syndrome

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a clinical condition resulting from impaired hepatic venous drainage, in which there is obstruction to the hepatic venous outflow at any level from the small hepatic veins to the junction of the inferior vena cava and the right atrium leading to hepatic congestion. The diagnosis of BCS is based on imaging, which can be gathered from non-invasive investigations such as ultrasonography coupled with venous Doppler, triphasic computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Apart from diagnosis, various interventional radiology procedures aid in the successful management of this syndrome. In this article, we present various imaging features of BCS along with various interventional procedures that are used to treat this diverse condition.

Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt in Patients with Portal Hypertension: Patency Depends on Coverage and Interventionalist's Experience

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is the treatment of choice in decompensated portal hypertension. TIPS revision due to thrombosis or stenosis increases morbidity and mortality. Our aim was to investigate patient- and procedure-associated risk factors for TIPS-revision.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 189 patients who underwent the TIPS procedure. Only patients who required TIPS revision within 1 year (Group I, 34 patients) and patients who did not require re-intervention within the first year (Group II [control group], 54 patients) were included.

RESULTS

Out of 88 patients, the majority were male (69.3%) and mean age was 56 ± 11 years. Indications for TIPS were refractory ascites (68%), bleeding (24%), and Budd-Chiari syndrome (8%). The most frequent liver disease was alcohol-induced cirrhosis (60%). Forty-three patients (49%) received bare and 45 patients (51%) covered stents, thus resulting in reduction of hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) from 19.0 to 9.0 mm Hg. When comparing patient- and procedure-related factors, the type of stent (p < 0.01) and interventionalist's experience (number of performed TIPS implantations per year; p < 0.05) were the only factors affecting the risk of re-intervention due to stent dysfunction, while age, gender, indication, Child-Pugh, and model of end-stage liver disease score, platelet count, pre- and post-HVPG, additional variceal embolization, stent diameter, and number of stents did not significantly differ.

CONCLUSION

Patients undergoing TIPS procedure should be surveilled closely for shunt dysfunction while covered stents and high-level experience are associated with increased -patency.

Timing of Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt for Budd-Chiari Syndrome: An Italian Hepatologist's Perspective

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) management flow-chart is derived from experts' opinion and is not evidence-based. Guidelines suggest BCS management should follow a stepwise strategy: medical therapy as first-line treatment, revascularization or transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) if no response to medical therapy, and liver transplant as rescue therapy. Recent evidence suggests that only medical therapy results in a bad long-term outcome. The biggest criticism of guidelines is the indication that BCS should receive further treatment only when hemodynamic consequences of portal hypertension become clinically evident. Recent data support that in BCS liver fibrosis could arise from chronic microvascular ischemia. A reasoning model of BCS physiopathology is that impaired hepatic vein outflow has hemodynamic consequences on portal hypertension development and causes hepatic fibrosis and liver failure through chronic ischemic damage. On this assumption is the concept that relieving liver congestion could ameliorate liver function and prevent development of BCS complications. Recently, early interventional treatment with TIPS for BCS has been reported to be effective. Early TIPS seems to be the best option for BCS management. Future multicenter controlled studies should compare the outcome of BCS treated with early interventional treatment compared with stepwise strategy.

Budd-Chiari syndrome: outcomes of endovascular intervention-A single-center experience

AIM

Outcomes of endovascular intervention in Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) have been reported with varied results. Clinical outcomes of endovascular interventions in BCS and role of various prognostic scores were critically evaluated in this study.

METHODS

This study retrospectively analyzed consecutive patients of BCS who underwent endovascular intervention between January 2007 and May 2016 at our center. Technical, clinical successes and complications were documented. The role of the prognostic scores such as Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP), model for end-stage liver disease (MELD), Rotterdam index, and original Clichy score in predicting mortality, clinical success, and need for re-interventions were also assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 88 patients were analyzed. The median follow up was 12 months (range 1-96 months). Thirteen (14.8%) patients had combined inferior vena cava (IVC) and hepatic vein (HV) obstruction; HV obstruction in 33 (37.5%) and inferior vena cava IVC obstruction in 42 (47.7%) patients. The following interventions were done: IVC angioplasty alone (n = 11), IVC angioplasty with stenting (n = 36), HV angioplasty with stenting (n = 26), combined HV and IVC stent (n = 2), and direct intrahepatic porto-systemic shunt (DIPS) (n = 13). Overall technical success was 87/88 (98.86%), and clinical success was 76/88 (86.36%). Immediate complications were noted in 8 patients (10%). The 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-year stent patency rates were 90.91%, 81.08%, 74.59%, and 70.45%, respectively. Re-interventions were required in 15 (17%). Overall mortality was 6 (6.8%). Apart from MELD >14, none of the other prognostic score could predict mortality, clinical success, and need for re-interventions.

CONCLUSION

Endovascular interventions play an important role in the management of BCS, in properly selected patients, even if prognostic score is unfavorable.

Consensus conference on TIPS management: Techniques, indications, contraindications

The trans jugular intrahepatic Porto systemic shunt (TIPS) is no longer viewed as a salvage therapy or a bridge to liver transplantation and is currently indicated for a number of conditions related to portal hypertension with positive results in survival. Moreover, the availability of self-expandable polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)-covered endoprostheses has dramatically improved the long-term patency of TIPS. However, since the last updated International guidelines have been published (year 2009) new evidence have come, which have open the field to new indications and solved areas of uncertainty. On this basis, the Italian Association of the Study of the Liver (AISF), the Italian College of Interventional Radiology-Italian Society of Medical Radiology (ICIR-SIRM), and the Italian Society of Anesthesia, Analgesia and Intensive Care (SIAARTI) promoted a Consensus Conference on TIPS. Under the auspices of the three scientific societies, the consensus process started with the review of the literature by a scientific board of experts and ended with a formal consensus meeting in Bergamo on June 4th and 5th, 2015. The final statements presented here were graded according to quality of evidence and strength of recommendations and were approved by an independent jury. By highlighting strengths and weaknesses of current indications to TIPS, the recommendations of AISF-ICIR-SIRM-SIAARTI may represent the starting point for further studies.

Changes in Liver Congestion in Patients with Budd-Chiari Syndrome following Endovascular Interventions: Assessment with Transient Elastography

PURPOSE

Transient elastography (TE) is routinely used for noninvasive staging of hepatic fibrosis. The objective of the present study was to investigate the role of TE (FibroScan) in determining changes in liver congestion in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) treated by endovascular interventions and determine the effects of pretreatment Meta-analysis of Histological Data in Viral Hepatitis (METAVIR) fibrosis score on posttreatment liver stiffness (LS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty-five patients undergoing endovascular procedures for treatment of BCS underwent TE immediately before and within 24 hours after the procedure. Fifteen patients available for 3-month follow-up were again subjected to TE. Mean LS values before and after intervention were compared in 12 of these patients for whom METAVIR scores were available. Pressure gradient changes across the stenosed hepatic veins/inferior vena cava were measured during the procedure. Statistical analysis of these data was performed by Wilcoxon signed-rank test, Mann-Whitney U test, and Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

Significant differences were found between mean LS measurements before and within 24 hours after intervention (Z-score = 4.372) and between the mean values obtained before and 3 months after treatment (Z-score = 3.408). Mean changes in LS values after intervention in patients with METAVIR fibrosis scores ≤ 2 and > 2 were not significant. There was no correlation between changes in pressure gradients and the degree of LS.

CONCLUSIONS

TE is a useful tool to assess the reduction in hepatic congestion in patients with BCS undergoing endovascular interventions.

Endovascular treatment of Budd-Chiari syndrome: Single center experience

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Percutaneous radiologic interventions are increasingly being used in management of Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). Minimal invasive approach has resulted in excellent long-term outcomes. We evaluated the treatment efficacy and safety of radiological intervention in patients with BCS.

METHODS

Between January 2008 and June 2014, 190 patients with BCS underwent endovascular procedures (hepatic vein, collateral vein or inferior vena cava [IVC] plasty with or without stenting, or transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunting [TIPSS]). Clinical features, biochemical profile, and stent patency were monitored pre-procedure and post-procedure, and for a median duration of 42 (12-88) months.

RESULTS

Of 190 patients (mean [SD] age = 26.9 [11.5] years; 102 men), imaging revealed hepatic vein obstruction in 147 patients, IVC obstruction in 40 patients, and concomitant hepatic vein and IVC obstruction in three patients. At presentation, the radiological interventions included hepatic vein plasty/stenting in 38 patients, collateral vein stenting in three patients, IVC plasty/stenting in 40 patients, both IVC and hepatic vein stenting in three patients, and TIPSS in 106 patients. Response was seen in 153 patients (80.5%). Repeat interventions were required in 19 patients (10.0%). Complications were noted in nine patients (4.7%).

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates that venous recanalization and TIPSS for BCS are safe and efficacious.

Redefining Budd-Chiari syndrome: A systematic review

AIM: To re-examine whether hepatic vein thrombosis (HVT) (classical Budd-Chiari syndrome) and hepatic vena cava-Budd Chiari syndrome (HVC-BCS) are the same disorder.

METHODS: A systematic review of observational studies conducted in adult subjects with primary BCS, hepatic vein outflow tract obstruction, membranous obstruction of the inferior vena cava (IVC), obliterative hepatocavopathy, or HVT during the period of January 2000 until February 2015 was conducted using the following databases: Cochrane Library, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PubMed and Scopus.

RESULTS: Of 1299 articles identified, 26 were included in this study. Classical BCS is more common in women with a pure hepatic vein obstruction (49%-74%). HVC-BCS is more common in men with the obstruction often located in both the inferior vena cava and hepatic veins (14%-84%). Classical BCS presents with acute abdominal pain, ascites, and hepatomegaly. HVC-BCS presents with chronic abdominal pain and abdominal wall varices. Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) are the most common etiology of classical BCS (16%-62%) with the JAK2V617-F mutation found in 26%-52%. In HVC-BCS, MPN are found in 4%-5%, and the JAK2V617-F mutation in 2%-5%. Classical BCS responds well to medical management alone and 1^st line management of HVC-BCS involves percutaneous recanalization, with few managed with medical management alone.

CONCLUSION: Systematic review of recent data suggests that classical BCS and HVC-BCS may be two clinically different disorders that involve the disruption of hepatic venous outflow.

Long-term clinical outcome of Budd-Chiari syndrome in children after radiological intervention

OBJECTIVES

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is an uncommon cause of chronic liver disease in children. The literature on the management of pediatric BCS is scarce. Our aim was to determine the long-term outcome of patients undergoing a radiological intervention for the treatment of BCS.

METHODS

Thirty-two children diagnosed with BCS between 2004 and 2014 were included. Data on the course of disease, medical management, response, and complications related to radiological interventions and outcome were collected.

MAIN RESULTS

Twenty-five patients who were on regular follow-up were analyzed. The median age of the patients at presentation was 9 months (4.5-214). Sixteen patients initially received anticoagulation alone. This was associated with a high failure rate of 66%. Twenty patients underwent a radiological intervention in the form of angioplasty (n=7), hepatic vein stenting (n=3) or transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) (n=14). Success with angioplasty was achieved in 43% of cases. Hepatic vein stenting was successful in 66%, whereas TIPS was successful in 72% of cases. TIPS was feasible in all patients. The median follow-up duration was 44 months (5-132). Four patients developed hepatopulmonary syndrome after a median period of 3 years (1.5-5.25) and one patient developed hepatocellular carcinoma.

CONCLUSION

BCS commonly presents during infancy. Anticoagulation alone and angioplasty of the hepatic veins are associated with a high failure rate. Hepatic vein stenting or TIPS is feasible and efficacious in improving liver function, portal hypertension, and growth. It is associated with good long-term outcome and delays the need for liver transplantation, but may not prevent complications such as hepatopulmonary syndrome and hepatocellular carcinoma.

Budd-Chiari syndrome

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare and potentially life-threatening disorder characterized by obstruction of the hepatic outflow tract at any level between the junction of the inferior vena cava with the right atrium and the small hepatic veins. In the West, BCS is a rare hepatic manifestation of one or more underlying prothrombotic risk factors. The most common underlying prothrombotic risk factor is a myeloproliferative disorder, although it is now recognized that almost half of patients have multiple underlying prothrombotic risk factors. Clinical manifestations can be diverse, making BCS a possible differential diagnosis of many acute and chronic liver diseases. The index of suspicion should be very low if there is a known underlying prothrombotic risk factor and new onset of liver disease. Doppler ultrasound is sufficient for confirming the diagnosis, although tomographic imaging (computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)) is often necessary for further treatment and discussion with a multidisciplinary team. Anticoagulation is the cornerstone of the treatment. Despite the use of anticoagulation, the majority of patients need additional (more invasive) treatment strategies. Algorithms consisting of local angioplasty, TIPS and liver transplantation have been proposed, with treatment choice dictated by a lack of response to a less-invasive treatment regimen. The application of these treatment strategies allows for a five-year survival rate of 90%. In the long term the disease course of BCS can sometimes be complicated by recurrence, progression of the underlying myeloproliferative disorder, or development of post-transplant lymphoma in transplant patients.

Effect of technical parameters on transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts utilizing stent grafts

AIM: To assess the effect of technical parameters on outcomes of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) created using a stent graft.

METHODS: The medical records of 68 patients who underwent TIPS placement with a stent graft from 2008 to 2014 were reviewed by two radiologists blinded to the patient outcomes. Digital Subtraction Angiographic images with a measuring catheter in two orthogonal planes was used to determine the TIPS stent-to-inferior vena cava distance (SIVCD), hepatic vein to parenchymal tract angle (HVTA), portal vein to parenchymal tract angle (PVTA), and the accessed portal vein. The length and diameter of the TIPS stent and the use of concurrent variceal embolization were recorded by review of the patient’s procedure note. Data on re-intervention within 30 d of TIPS placement, recurrence of symptoms, and survival were collected through the patient’s chart. Cox proportional regression analysis was performed to assess the effect of these technical parameters on primary patency of TIPS, time to recurrence of symptoms, and all-cause mortality.

RESULTS: There was no significant association between the SIVCD and primary patency (P = 0.23), time to recurrence of symptoms (P = 0.83), or all-cause mortality (P = 0.18). The 3, 6, and 12-mo primary patency rates for a SIVCD ≥ 1.5 cm were 82.4%, 64.7%, and 50.3% compared to 89.3%, 83.8%, and 60.6% for a SIVCD of < 1.5 cm (P = 0.29). The median time to stenosis for a SIVCD of ≥ 1.5 cm was 19.1 mo vs 15.1 mo for a SIVCD of < 1.5 cm (P = 0.48). There was no significant association between the following factors and primary patency: HVTA (P = 0.99), PVTA (P = 0.65), accessed portal vein (P = 0.35), TIPS stent diameter (P = 0.93), TIPS stent length (P = 0.48), concurrent variceal embolization (P = 0.13) and reinterventions within 30 d (P = 0.24). Furthermore, there was no correlation between these technical parameters and time to recurrence of symptoms or all-cause mortality. Recurrence of symptoms was associated with stent graft stenosis (P = 0.03).

CONCLUSION: TIPS stent-to-caval distance and other parameters have no significant effect on primary patency, time to recurrence of symptoms, or all-cause mortality following TIPS with a stent-graft.

An update on the management of Budd-Chiari syndrome: the issues of timing and choice of treatment

Because of the rarity of Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS), the flow chart of management comes from expert opinion and is not evidence based. To report an update on the management of BCS. I performed a review on published papers on BCS in an attempt to speculate in particular on the timing and the choice of treatment. Some authors suggest that the management of BCS should follow a step-wise strategy. Anticoagulation and medical therapy should be the first-line treatment. Revascularization or transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt should be performed in case of no response to medical therapy. Orthotopic liver transplant should be used as a rescue therapy. The biggest criticism of this flow chart is that it is based on the assumption that patients with BCS should receive further treatment only when hemodynamic effects on portal hypertension become clinically evident, thus paying little attention to the chronic ischemic liver damage effects on hepatic function and to the possibility of preventing liver failure by relieving impaired hepatic veins outflow. Recently, I presented a proposal of a new algorithm for the management of BCS, in which medical therapy alone is suggested only for patients without any sign of portal hypertension, irrespective of whether early interventional treatment is suggested when either any symptoms or signs of portal hypertension appear, with the aim of preventing hepatic fibrosis development, disease progression, and finally improving outcome. Given that the benefit of treatments for BCS is not under debate, guidelines for the management of BCS should be re-evaluated and updated, with particular attention to both the timing and the choice of treatment.

Budd-Chiari syndrome and liver transplantation

Budd-Chiari syndrome involves obstruction of hepatic venous outflow tracts at various levels from small hepatic veins to the inferior vena cava and is the result of thrombosis or its fibrous sequelae. There is a conspicuous difference in its etiology in the West and the East. Myeloproliferative disease predominates in the West and obstruction of the vena cava predominates in the East. The clinical presentation and clinical manifestations are so varied that it should be suspected in any patient with acute or chronic liver dysfunction. It should be treated with step-wise management. First-line therapy should be anticoagulation with medical treatment of the underlying illness, and interventional revascularization and TIPS are indicated in the event of a lack of response to medical therapy. Liver transplantation may be indicated as a rescue treatment or for fulminant cases with promising results. This step-by-step strategy has achieved a 5-year transplant-free survival rate of 70% and a 5-year overall survival rate of 90%. Living donor liver transplantation can also be used for patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome if deceased donor livers are scarce, but it requires a difficult procedure particularly with regard to venous outflow reconstruction.

Liver transplant in Budd-Chiari syndrome: a single-center experience in Saudi Arabia

OBJECTIVES

If they do not respond to other treatments, patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome are potential candidates for a liver transplant. Timing for transplant is controversial; however, before other systems deteriorate, early intervention in relatively stable patient may improve the outcome and survival of these patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Six patients (2 women and 4 men) had Budd-Chiari syndrome (1.2%) among 475 patients who had undergone a liver transplant at our center between 2001 and 2012. Imaging modalities including duplex ultrasound, abdominal computed tomography angiography, and hematologic evaluation were part of our routine diagnostic work-up. Although we perform mostly living-donor liver transplants, these patients received a liver transplant from a deceased donor, because there was not enough evidence to justify a living-donor liver transplant. We thought that not replacing the caval vein might negatively influence the outcome. Postoperatively, these recipients were started on a heparin infusion and triple therapy immunosuppression; only then was warfarin introduced as long-term anticoagulant.

RESULTS

Two patients died, 1 from uncontrollable bleeding and disseminated intravascular coagulopathy, and the other died in the intensive care unit after 5 months because of multiorgan failure and sepsis. One patient had portal vein thrombosis 9 months after the liver transplant; the other patient needed a liver retransplant after 5 years owing to liver failure, secondary to chronic rejection. Graft survival rate was 75%, and patient survival rate was 66.6%.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first article from Saudi Arabia to describe the outcome of a liver transplant in this subgroup of patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome. Treatment of Budd-Chiari syndrome follows a therapeutic algorithm that should start with anticoagulation and may end up with liver transplant; however, it should be considered early if other treatments fail.

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is an established procedure for the complications of portal hypertension. The largest body of evidence for its use has been supported for recurrent or refractory variceal bleeding and refractory ascites. Its use has also been advocated for acute variceal bleed, hepatic hydrothorax, and hepatorenal syndrome. With the replacement of bare metal stents with polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stents, shunt patency has improved dramatically, thus, improving outcomes. Therefore, reassessment of its utility, management of its complications, and understanding of various TIPS techniques is important.

Diagnosis and management of Budd Chiari syndrome: an update

Imaging plays a crucial role in the early detection and assessment of the extent of disease in Budd Chiari syndrome (BCS). Early diagnosis and intervention to mitigate hepatic congestion is vital to restoring hepatic function and alleviating portal hypertension. Interventional radiology serves a key role in the management of these patients. The interventionist should be knowledgeable of the clinical presentation as well as key imaging findings, which often dictate the approach to treatment. This article concisely reviews the etiology, pathophysiology, and clinical presentation of BCS and provides a detailed description of imaging and treatment options, particularly interventional management.

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt for the treatment of Budd-Chiari syndrome patients: results from a single center

PURPOSE

To evaluate the outcome of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fourteen patients (11 female, mean age 45.8 years), with symptomatic BCS refractory to conventional therapy, were treated with TIPS placement in our department within a period of 9 years. Stent grafts were primarily used in 12 patients. Mean follow-up time was 38.1 ± 36.1 months (range 7-114). Model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score, BCS Rotterdam index, and Child-Pugh score were calculated for all patients. In addition, the recently suggested BCS-TIPS prognostic index score (BSC-TIPS PI) was applied.

RESULTS

BCS-TIPS PI score was ≤7 in all patients. Most of our patients (12 of 14) had good or intermediate prognosis according to MELD, Rotterdam and Child-Pugh scores. Technical success was achieved in all 14 patients and was accompanied by complete resolution of the symptoms. In 3 patients, the procedure was complicated by hemoperitoneum, which was successfully treated in two patients with coils or stent-graft placement, whereas 1 patient was managed in the operating room. Thirteen patients are symptom and orthotopic liver transplantation-free. Primary patency was 92.8, 84.7, and 58.7 % at 6, 12, and 24 months, respectively. Secondary patency was 100, 100 and 84.6 % at 6, 12, and 24 months respectively.

CONCLUSION

In symptomatic BCS patients with moderate prognosis according to MELD, Child-Pugh, and BCS Rotterdam scores, as well as BCS-TIPS PI score ≤7, TIPS has high clinical success, low morbidity, and no mortality, and it offers durable mid-term resolution of the symptoms and OLT-free survival.

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in the treatment of Budd-Chiari syndrome: a critical review of literatures

An increasing number of patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) have undergone transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). However, the critical role of TIPS in the treatment of BCS has not been systematically reviewed. The authors identified all relevant literatures via the PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane library databases. Overall, 160 papers from 29 countries reported the application of TIPS for BCS. The number of publications was increased over time, but the level of evidence in this field was low. Common indications for TIPS in BCS patients included refractory ascites, recurrent variceal bleeding, diffuse hepatic vein thrombosis and progressive liver failure. Successful TIPS insertion could improve the hemodynamic and clinical parameters. TIPS procedure-related complications were not infrequent (range: 0-56%), but procedure-related death was rare. Shunt dysfunction rate appeared to be higher (range: 18-100%). Compared with bare stents, covered stents could significantly decrease the rate of shunt dysfunction. Hepatic encephalopathy rate after TIPS was relatively low (range: 0-25%). Short- and long-term prognosis of BCS-TIPS patients was excellent with 1-year cumulative survival rate of 80-100% and 5-year cumulative survival rate of 74-78%. In conclusions, existing literatures supported the feasibility, safety and efficacy of TIPS in the treatment of BCS. Prospective cohort studies or randomized controlled trials were difficult due to the rarity of BCS, but might be very necessary to precisely identify the timing of transition from medical therapy and/or percutaneous recanalization to TIPS insertion and the real candidates in whom early TIPS should be promptly employed with no need of any prior therapy.

The transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in the treatment of portal hypertension: current status

The transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) represents a major advance in the treatment of complications of portal hypertension. Technical improvements and increased experience over the past 24 years led to improved clinical results and a better definition of the indications for TIPS. Randomized clinical trials indicate that the TIPS procedure is not a first-line therapy for variceal bleeding, but can be used when medical treatment fails, both in the acute situation or to prevent variceal rebleeding. The role of TIPS to treat refractory ascites is probably more justified to improve the quality of life rather than to improve survival, except for patients with preserved liver function. It can be helpful for hepatic hydrothorax and can reverse hepatorenal syndrome in selected cases. It is a good treatment for Budd Chiari syndrome uncontrollable by medical treatment. Careful selection of patients is mandatory before TIPS, and clinical followup is essential to detect and treat complications that may result from TIPS stenosis (which can be prevented by using covered stents) and chronic encephalopathy (which may in severe cases justify reduction or occlusion of the shunt). A multidisciplinary approach, including the resources for liver transplantation, is always required to treat these patients.

Hypercoagulability in patients with chronic noncirrhotic portal vein thrombosis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Although they have normal liver histology and function, patients with chronic noncirrhotic nontumoral portal vein thrombosis (NC-PVT) frequently have abnormal results from coagulation tests. We investigated the significance of these results.

METHODS

We analyzed blood samples collected from 50 stable patients with NC-PVT secondary to a thrombophilic disorder (32%) or local factor (32%), or that was idiopathic (36%). We measured endogenous thrombin potential (ETP) with and without thrombomodulin, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, coagulation factors (I, II, V, VII, VIII, IX, X, XI, and XII), antithrombin, proteins C and S, von Willebrand factor (vWF) antigen, vWF ristocetin cofactor, a disintegrin and metalloprotease with thrombospondin type 1 motifs 13 antigen, D-dimer, plasmin-antiplasmin complex, prothrombin fragment F1+2, activated factor VII, and clot lysis time. Samples from 50 age- and sex-matched healthy individuals were evaluated as controls.

RESULTS

Compared with controls, patients with NC-PVT had significant increases in prothrombin time and activated partial thromboplastin time; they had significant reductions in levels of procoagulant factors II, V, VII, IX, X, XI, and XII, and the anticoagulants antithrombin, protein C, and protein S. The patients had increased levels of factor VIII and vWF antigen. Irrespective of etiology, patients with NC-PVT had a significant increase in ETP with thrombomodulin and higher levels of factor VIIa, prothrombin fragment F1+2, D-dimer, and plasmin-antiplasmin complex than controls, indicating in vivo activation of coagulation and fibrinolysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with NC-PVT have hypercoagulability that is independent of the underlying etiology, based on in vitro analyses of thrombin-generation capacity and increased levels of biomarkers in blood samples. Further studies are required to determine if activation of hemostasis increases the risk for thrombotic events.

Using transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts for complications of cirrhosis

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) decompresses the portal venous system. TIPS has been used to manage the complications of portal hypertension in cirrhosis, including variceal hemorrhage and refractory ascites. The uncoated TIPS stents are limited by stent stenosis; however, the introduction of coated stents has decreased this. With the introduction of coated stents, we must reevaluate the utility of TIPS in the management of complications of portal hypertension.

Budd-Chiari syndrome management: Lights and shadows

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare disease whose management should follow a step by step strategy. Anticoagulation and medical therapy should be the first line treatment. Revascularization or TIPS are indicated in case of no response to medical therapy. OLT should be indicated as a rescue therapy and anticoagulation be started soon after OLT. However, no clear indication can actually be given about the timing of different treatments. Moreover, there is some concern about treatment of some subgroup of patients, especially regarding the risk of recurrence after liver transplantation. The topic of this paper is to critically review the actual knowledge of BCS management.

Imaging and interventions in Budd-Chiari syndrome

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) consists of a group of disorders with obstruction of hepatic venous outflow leading to increased hepatic sinusoidal pressure and portal hypertension. Clinically, two forms of disease (acute and chronic) are recognized. Mostly the patients present with ascites, hepatomegaly, and portal hypertension. In acute disease the liver is enlarged with thrombosed hepatic veins (HV) and ascites, whereas in the chronic form of the disease there may be membranous occlusion of HV and/or the inferior vena cava (IVC), or there may be short or long segment fibrotic constriction of HV or the suprahepatic IVC. Due to advances in radiological interventional techniques and hardware, there have been changes in the management protocol of BCS with surgery being offered to patients not suitable for radiological interventions or having acute liver failure requiring liver transplantation. The present article gives an insight into various imaging findings and interventional techniques employed in the management of BCS.