Differences in long-term survival after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt for refractory ascites and variceal bleed

Shunt dysfunction and mortality after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) in patients with portal hypertension

OBJECTIVES

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is a catheter-based, minimally invasive procedure to reduce portal hypertension. The aim of the study was to investigate dysfunction and mortality after TIPS and to identify factors associated with these events.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 834 patients undergoing TIPS implantation in a single center from 1993-2018 was performed. Cumulative incidence curves were estimated, and frailty models were used to assess associations between potentially influential variables and time to dysfunction or death.

RESULTS

1-, 2-, and 5-year mortality rates were 20.9% (confidence interval (CI) 17.7-24.1), 22.5% (CI 19.1-25.8), and 25.0% (CI: 21.1-28.8), 1-year, 2-year, and 5-year dysfunction rates were 28.4% (CI 24.6-32.3), 38.9% (CI 34.5-43.3), and 52.4% (CI 47.2-57.6). The use of covered stents is a protective factor regarding TIPS dysfunction (hazard ratio (HR) 0.47, CI 0.33-0.68) but does not play a major role in survival (HR 0.95, CI 0.58-1.56). Risk factors for mortality are rather TIPS in an emergency setting (HR 2.78, CI 1.19-6.50), a previous TIPS dysfunction (HR 2.43, CI 1.28-4.62), and an increased Freiburg score (HR 1.45, CI 0.93-2.28).

CONCLUSION

The use of covered stents is an important protective factor regarding TIPS dysfunction. Whereas previous TIPS dysfunction, emergency TIPS implantation, and an elevated Freiburg score are associated with increased mortality. Awareness of risk factors could contribute to a better selection of patients who may benefit from a TIPS procedure and improve clinical follow-up with regard to early detection of thrombosis/stenosis.

CRITICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

The use of covered stents reduces the risk of dysfunction after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). TIPS dysfunction, emergency TIPS placement, and a high Freiburg score are linked to higher mortality rates in TIPS patients.

KEY POINTS

The risk of dysfunction is higher for uncovered stents compared to covered stents. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt dysfunction increases the risk of instantaneous death after the intervention. A higher Freiburg score increases the rate of death after the intervention. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt implantations in emergency settings reduce survival rates.

Healthcare Disparities in Interventional Radiology

Racial, ethnic, and sex-based healthcare disparities have been documented for the past several decades. Nonetheless, disparities remain firmly entrenched in our care delivery systems, with multiple contributing factors, including patient interactions with care providers, systemic barriers to access, and socioeconomic determinants of health. Interventional radiology is also subject to these drivers of health inequity. In this review, documented disparities for the most common conditions being addressed by interventional radiologists are summarized; their magnitude is quantified where relevant, and underlying drivers are identified. Specific examples are provided to illustrate how medical, cultural, and socioeconomic factors interact to produce unequal outcomes. By outlining known disparities and common contributors, this review aims to motivate future efforts to mitigate them.

Current treatment options of refractory ascites in liver cirrhosis - A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Refractory ascites is a severe complication of liver cirrhosis and treatment options consist in large volume paracentesis, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt, alfapump®, peritoneovenous shunt and permanent indwelling peritoneal catheter.

AIM

Our aim was to assess the efficacy, mortality and complications of each treatment.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review using Pubmed and Embase. Frequencies were summarized with Comprehensive Meta-Analysis Software.

RESULTS

Seventy-seven studies were included. In patients with transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt, 1-year mortality was 33% (95% CI 0.29-0.39, I²=82.1; τ² = 0.37; p<0.001) with lower mortality in newer studies (26% vs. 44%). At 6 months, mortality in patients with alfapump® was 24% (95% CI 0.16-0.33, I²=0.00; τ² = 0.00; p = 0.83), 31% developed acute kidney injury (95% CI 0.18-0.48, I²=44.0; τ² = 0.22; p = 0.15). Mortality at 12 months was 44% (95% CI 32%-58%, I²=76.7, τ² = 0.44, p<0.001) in peritoneovenous shunts and 45% (95% CI 38%-53%, I²=61.4, τ² = 0.18, p = 0.003) in large volume paracentesis, respectively. Overall mortality in patients with permanent indwelling catheters was 66% (95% CI 33%-89%, I²=82.5, τ² = 1.57, p = 0.001).

DISCUSSION

Mortality in patients with transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt was lower in newer studies, probably due to a better patient selection. Acute kidney injury was frequent in patients with alfapump®. Permanent indwelling catheters seemed to be a good option in a palliative setting.

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt for the management of symptomatic malignant pseudocirrhosis

BACKGROUND

Pseudocirrhosis is defined by radiologic changes of the liver parenchyma secondary to metastatic disease and/or cancer treatments, and portends a high rate of morbidity and mortality from sequelae of portal hypertension. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is an effective treatment for portal hypertension; however, TIPS is relatively contraindicated in the setting of hepatic metastases. The study aims to determine the technical efficacy and clinical outcomes of patients undergoing TIPS for symptomatic pseudocirrhosis.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of patients with hepatic malignancy who underwent TIPS between 2008 and 2020 at a single tertiary care center. Patients with imaging findings of pseudocirrhosis and without history of primary liver malignancy or confounding causes of cirrhosis were included. West Haven scores assessing hepatic encephalopathy were obtained from chart review. Technical success was defined as successful TIPS creation with reduction in the portosystemic gradient (PSG). Clinical success was defined as resolution of variceal bleeding and/or ascites.

RESULTS

Nine patients (4 female/5 male), average (± SD) age 61.2±9.5 years with metastatic pseudocirrhosis were included for analysis. Primary malignancy was colorectal adenocarcinoma (n=5), neuroendocrine tumor (n=3), and malignant endothelial hemangioendothelioma (n=1). Average Model for End Stage Liver Disease (MELD-Na) score was 15.7±3.7. Technical success was 8/9 (89%) with average PSG reduced from 23.5±11.0 to 6.5±2.8 mmHg (P=0.001). Clinical success was 6/9 (67%). Two patients required TIPS revision after initial clinical success. Mild-moderate HE occurred in 6/9 patients post TIPS (67%), with a highest West Haven score of 2. Time from TIPS to death for acute variceal bleeding and ascites was 4.9±4.2 and 12±16.5 months, respectively. Cause of death was disease progression (n=5), variceal bleeding (n=1), or unavailable (n=2).

CONCLUSIONS

TIPS in the setting of malignant pseudocirrhosis can be created safely with similar clinical outcomes to TIPS performed for benign disease. Rates of low-grade hepatic encephalopathy may be higher amongst patients undergoing TIPS for pseudocirrhosis.

Long-term clinical outcome and survival predictors in patients with cirrhosis after 10-mm-covered transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) are successfully used in the management of portal hypertension (PH)-related complications. Debate surrounds the diameter of the dilation. The aim was to analyse the outcomes of and complications deriving from TIPS in patients with cirrhosis and identify predictors of survival.

METHODS

This was a retrospective single-centre study, which included patients with cirrhosis who had a TIPS procedure for PH from 2009 to October 2018. Demographic, clinical and radiological data were collected. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to measure survival and predictors of survival were identified with the Cox regression model.

RESULTS

A total of 98 patients were included (78.6% male), mean age was 58.5 (SD±/-9.9) and the median MELD was 13.3 (IQR 9.5-16). The indications were refractory ascites (RA), variceal bleeding (VB) and hepatic hydrothorax (HH). Median survival was 72 months (RA 46.4, VB 68.5 and HH 64.7) and transplant-free survival was 26 months. Clinical and technical success rates were 70.5% and 92.9% respectively. Age (HR 1.05), clinical success (HR 0.33), sodium (HR 0.92), renal failure (HR 2.46) and albumin (HR 0.35) were predictors of survival. Hepatic encephalopathy occurred in 28.6% of patients and TIPS dysfunction occurred in 16.3%.

CONCLUSIONS

TIPS with 10-mm PTFE-covered stent is an effective and safe treatment for PH-related complications in patients with cirrhosis. Age, renal failure, sodium, albumin and clinical success are independent predictors of long-term survival.

Retrospective Study of Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Placement for Cirrhotic Portal Hypertension

Background and Aims

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is used for decompressing clinically significant portal hypertension. The aims of this study were to evaluate clinical outcomes and adverse events associated with this procedure.

Methods

Retrospective single-center study including 78 patients submitted to TIPS placement between January 2015 and November 2018. Follow-up data were missing in 27 patients, and finally 51 patients were included in the study sample. Data collected from individual registries included demographics, comorbidities, laboratory results, complications, and clinical results according to the indication.

Results

Average pre-TIPS portosystemic pressure gradient decreased from 18.1 ± 5 to 6 ± 3 mm Hg after TIPS placement. Indications for TIPS were refractory ascites (63%, n = 49), recurrent or uncontrolled variceal bleeding (36%, n = 28), and Budd-Chiari syndrome (1.3%, n = 1). TIPS-related adverse events occurred in 29/51 (56.8%) patients, with hepatic encephalopathy (HE) in 21 (41%) patients, sepsis in 3, liver failure in 2, hemolytic anemia in 1, acute pulmonary edema in 1, and capsular perforation in 1 patient. Mean follow-up was 15.7 ± 15 months. First-month mortality was 11.7% (n = 6) (sepsis, n = 3; acute liver failure, n = 2; and recurrence of variceal bleeding, n = 1) and was significantly higher for patients with Child-Pugh >9 points (p = 0.01), model of end-stage liver disease (MELD) scores >19 (p = 0.02), and for patients with a history of HE before the procedure (p = 0.001). Older age (p = 0.006) and higher levels of creatinine (p = 0.008) were significantly higher in patients developing HE after TIPS. Ascites persisted in 21.2% (7/33 patients) and was more frequent in patients with lower baseline albumin levels (p = 0.003). Recurrent variceal bleeding occurred in 22% (n = 4/18 patients) and was more frequent in patients with lower baseline hemoglobin levels (p = 0.03).

Conclusion

TIPS is effective in up to 80% of patients presenting with variceal bleeding or refractory ascites. Careful patient selection based on age and HE history may reduce adverse events after TIPS.

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.

Nationwide trends and predictors of inpatient mortality in 83884 transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt

AIM: To evaluate and validate the national trends and predictors of in-patient mortality of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) in 15 years.

METHODS: Using the National Inpatient Sample which is a part of Health Cost and Utilization Project, we identified a discharge-weighted national estimate of 83884 TIPS procedures performed in the United States from 1998 to 2012 using international classification of diseases-9 procedural code 39.1. The demographic, hospital and co-morbility data were analyzed using a multivariant analysis. Using multi-nominal logistic regression analysis, we determined predictive factors related to increases in-hospital mortality. Comorbidity measures are in accordance to the Comorbidity Software designed by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

RESULTS: Overall, 12.3% of patients died during hospitalization with downward trend in-hospital mortality with the mean length of stay of 10.8 ± 13.1 d. Notable, African American patients (OR = 1.809 vs Caucasian patients, P < 0.001), transferred patients (OR = 1.347 vs non-transferred, P < 0.001), emergency admissions (OR = 3.032 vs elective cases, P < 0.001), patients in the Northeast region (OR = 1.449 vs West, P < 0.001) had significantly higher odds of in-hospital mortality. Number of diagnoses and number of procedures showed positive correlations with in-hospital death (OR = 1.249 per one increase in number of procedures). Patients diagnosed with acute respiratory failure (OR = 8.246), acute kidney failure (OR = 4.359), hepatic encephalopathy (OR = 2.217) and esophageal variceal bleeding (OR = 2.187) were at considerably higher odds of in-hospital death compared with ascites (OR = 0.136, P < 0.001). Comorbidity measures with the highest odds of in-hospital death were fluid and electrolyte disorders (OR = 2.823), coagulopathy (OR = 2.016), and lymphoma (OR = 1.842).

CONCLUSION: The overall mortality of the TIPS procedure is steadily decreasing, though the length of stay has remained relatively constant. Specific patient ethnicity, location, transfer status, primary diagnosis and comorbidities correlate with increased odds of TIPS in-hospital death.

Characteristics and outcomes of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt recipients in the VA Healthcare System

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement is an effective treatment for complications of portal hypertension. We aimed to describe post-TIPS mortality and its predictors in the modern era of covered stents.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We identified patients with cirrhosis who underwent TIPS insertion at Veterans Affairs Healthcare facilities nationally from 2004 to 2014 (n=703), most of which (95%) were performed as elective procedures. We followed patients until the date of death, transplantation, or the end of the observation period.

RESULTS

TIPS recipients had a mean age of 59.3 years (SD 8) and 97% were men. The mean Model for End Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score was 13 (SD 4.8); 47% had hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, 48% had variceal hemorrhage, and 40% had ascites. During a mean follow-up of 1.72 years (SD 1.9), 57.5% of TIPS recipients died (n=404) and only 5.3% underwent liver transplantation (n=37). The median survival after TIPS was 1.74 years (interquartile range 0.3-4.7). Thirty-day mortality after TIPS was 11.6% [95% confidence interval (CI) 9.4-14.2], 1-year mortality was 40.3% (95% CI 36.7-44.2), and 3-year mortality was 61.9% (95% CI 57.9-66.0). Independent predictors of post-TIPS mortality included medical comorbidity burden, low albumin, HCV infection, and high MELD score (or high international normalized ratio and bilirubin when the components of the MELD score were analyzed individually). TIPS revision was performed at least once in 27.3% of TIPS recipients.

CONCLUSION

TIPS should not be considered simply as a bridge to transplantation. Burden of extra-hepatic comorbidities, HCV infection, and low serum albumin strongly predict post-TIPS mortality in addition to the MELD score.

Portal Venous Interventions: State of the Art

In recent decades, there have been numerous advances in the management of liver cancer, cirrhosis, and diabetes mellitus. Although these diseases are wide ranging in their clinical manifestations, each can potentially be treated by exploiting the blood flow dynamics within the portal venous system, and in some cases, adding cellular therapies. To aid in the management of these disease states, minimally invasive transcatheter portal venous interventions have been developed to improve the safety of major hepatic resection, to reduce the untoward effects of sequelae from end-stage liver disease, and to minimize the requirement of exogenously administered insulin for patients with diabetes mellitus. This state of the art review therefore provides an overview of the most recent data and strategies for utilization of preoperative portal vein embolization, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt placement, balloon retrograde transvenous obliteration, and islet cell transplantation.

Outcome of the Pediatric Patients with Portal Cavernoma: The Retrospective Study for 10 Years Focusing on Recurrent Variceal Bleeding

Background. Portal cavernoma (PC) is the most critical condition with risk or variceal hemorrhage in pediatric patients. We retrospectively investigated the patients with PC focusing on the predictors for recurrent variceal bleeding. Methods. Between July 2003 and June 2013, we retrospectively enrolled all consecutive patients admitted to our department with a diagnosis of PC without abdominal malignancy or liver cirrhosis. The primary endpoint of this observational study was recurrent variceal bleeding. Independent predictors of recurrent variceal bleeding were identified using the logistic regression model. Results. A total of 157 patients were enrolled in the study. During the follow-up period, 24 patients exhibited onset of recurrent variceal bleeding. Acute variceal bleeding was subjected to conservative symptomatic treatment and emergency endoscopic sclerotherapy. Surgical procedure selection was based on the severity of vascular dilation and collateral circulation. Multivariate logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the presence of ascites, collateral circulation, and portal venous pressure were independent prognostic factors of recurrent variceal bleeding for patients with portal cavernoma. Conclusions. The presence of ascites, collateral circulation, and portal venous pressure evaluation are important and could predict the postsurgical recurrent variceal bleeding in patients with portal cavernoma.

TIPS for refractory ascites: a 6-year single-center experience with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stent-grafts

OBJECTIVE. This single-center study evaluated the use of expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE)-covered stent-grafts for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement to manage portal hypertension-related refractory ascites. MATERIALS AND METHODS. One hundred patients at a single tertiary care center in a major metropolitan hospital underwent TIPS placement with an ePTFE-covered stent-graft (Viatorr TIPS Endoprosthesis). Patients with portal hypertension-related ascites and preexisting hepatocellular carcinoma or liver transplant were excluded from the analysis. Records were reviewed for demographic characteristics, technical success of the TIPS procedures, and stent follow-up findings. Clinical results were assessed at 90- and 180-day intervals. RESULTS. Immediate technical success of the TIPS procedure was 100%. Of the 61 patients with documented follow-up, 55 (90.2%) had a partial or complete ascites response to TIPS creation. Of these 55 patients, nine experienced severe encephalopathy. Six of 61 patients (9.8%) did not experience a significant ascites response. Overall survival was 78.7% at 365-day follow-up. The 365-day survival was 84.2% for patients with a model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score of less than 15, 67.0% for those with a score of 15-18, and 53.8% for those with a score of greater than 18 (p = 0.01). For patients with a MELD score of less than 18, the 365-day survival was 88.0% for those with an albumin value of 3 mg/dL or greater and 72.8% for those with an albumin value of less than 3 mg/dL (p = 0.04). CONCLUSION. TIPS placement using an ePTFE-covered stent-graft is an efficacious therapy for refractory ascites. Patients with preserved liver function-characterized by a MELD score of less than 15 or a MELD score of less than 18 and an albumin value of 3 mg/dL or greater-experience the greatest survival benefit.

Budd-Chiari syndrome: A single-center experience

AIM: To investigate challenges, risk factors, prognostic indicators, and treatment outcomes associated with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) at a tertiary care center.

METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at the University of Pennsylvania in patients with a diagnosis of BCS or hepatic vein thrombosis. All patients receiving care at the University of Pennsylvania, and who had at least 2 clinical encounters in the University of Pennsylvania Health system from January 1, 2008 to September 10, 2013 were eligible for study inclusion. Data were extracted from the electronic medical record of each patient, and recorded in a secure Research Electronic Data Capture database. Logistic regression analyses were applied to identify predictors of outcome of liver transplant (LT) or death.

RESULTS: Between January 1, 2008 and September 10, 2013, forty-seven patients were identified. Median age was 42.4 years. Thirty-one (66.0%) were women. A majority were Caucasian (68.1%). At diagnosis, 43 (91.5%) patients had ascites, 27 (57.4%) patients had a hematologic disorder associated with a hypercoagulable state and 26 (55.3%) had cirrhosis. Forty (85.1%) patients were on anticoagulation (AC), 30 (63.8%) of whom were maintained on warfarin. Two patients (4.3%) underwent thrombolytic therapy. A transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) was placed in 21 (44.7%) patients, 19 (90.5%) of whom were also on AC. Twenty-one (44.7%) received AC alone. Over a median of 974 d, 8 (17.0%) patients received LT, and 10 (21.3%) died. The median time from listing to death was 26 mo [interquartile range (IQR) = 16, 65)]. TIPS with AC was utilized more frequently in younger patients (P = 0.02). Age, cirrhosis and chronic kidney disease (CKD) were significant predictors of LT or death.

CONCLUSION: AC alone was employed as frequently as TIPS with AC, though the latter was used more frequently in younger patients with polycythemia vera. There were no significant differences in treatment outcome regardless of the therapeutic intervention employed. Significant predictors of poor prognosis included age, cirrhosis and CKD.

Outcomes of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts for ascites

Refractory ascites represents a devastating complication of portal hypertension. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is an efficacious option for patients for whom transplant is not an immediate option. Techniques to optimize the hepatic venous pressure gradient and the use of covered stents have reduced rates of hepatic encephalopathy and stent occlusion, respectively. Patients with a Model for End-Stage Liver Disease score less than 15, serum creatinine less than 2 mg/dL, and serum bilirubin less than 2 mg/dL are particularly suited for TIPS placement. TIPS is also effective for hepatic hydrothorax and for massive ascites in the posttransplant setting, although future investigations are necessary to elucidate risk factors and establish the effect on transplant-free survival.

Clinical outcomes of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt for portal hypertension: Korean multicenter real-practice data

Background/Aims

This retrospective study assessed the clinical outcome of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedure for managing portal hypertension in Koreans with liver cirrhosis.

Methods

Between January 2003 and July 2013, 230 patients received a TIPS in 13 university-based hospitals.

Results

Of the 229 (99.6%) patients who successfully underwent TIPS placement, 142 received a TIPS for variceal bleeding, 84 for refractory ascites, and 3 for other indications. The follow-up period was 24.9±30.2 months (mean±SD), 74.7% of the stents were covered, and the primary patency rate at the 1-year follow-up was 78.7%. Hemorrhage occurred in 30 (21.1%) patients during follow-up; of these, 28 (93.3%) cases of rebleeding were associated with stent dysfunction. Fifty-four (23.6%) patients developed new hepatic encephalopathy, and most of these patients were successfully managed conservatively. The cumulative survival rates at 1, 6, 12, and 24 months were 87.5%, 75.0%, 66.8%, and 57.5%, respectively. A high Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score was significantly associated with the risk of death within the first month after receiving a TIPS (P=0.018). Old age (P<0.001), indication for a TIPS (ascites vs. bleeding, P=0.005), low serum albumin (P<0.001), and high MELD score (P=0.006) were associated with overall mortality.

Conclusions

A high MELD score was found to be significantly associated with early and overall mortality rate in TIPS patients. Determining the appropriate indication is warranted to improve survival in these patients.

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts in liver transplant recipients

The insertion of a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve the signs and symptoms of portal hypertension in patients with liver disease. The most common indications for placement are refractory ascites and variceal hemorrhage. In properly selected candidates, TIPS placement can serve as a bridge to liver transplantation. Expertise in TIPS placement after transplantation has significantly increased, which has allowed the procedure to become a viable option for retransplant candidates suffering the consequences of recurrent portal hypertension due to portal vein thrombosis, recurrent liver disease, or hepatic venous outflow obstruction (HVOO). However, TIPSs in liver transplant recipients are associated with a lower clinical response rate and a higher rate of complications in comparison with patients with native liver disease, and they are, therefore, generally reserved for patients with a Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score ≤ 15 and ≤ 12 in patients with HCV. The role of TIPS placement in nonliver transplant recipients has been well studied in large trials, and it translates well into clinical applicability to candidates for orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). However, the experience with OLT recipients is heterogeneous and restricted to small series. Thus, we focus here on reviewing the current literature and discussing the proper use of TIPSs in liver transplant recipients.

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt placement for refractory ascites: a single-centre experience

BACKGROUND

The presence of refractory ascites is a common indication for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). Different models have been proposed for the prediction of survival after TIPS. The aim of this study was to evaluate the predictive factors associated with patients' survival after TIPS placement for refractory ascites.

METHODS

Data from all consecutive patients undergoing TIPS placement in our center for refractory ascites between February 2003 and January 2008 were prospectively recorded.

RESULTS

Seventy-three patients (52M/21F; 57 ± 10 years) met the inclusion criteria; mean follow-up was 17 ± 2 months. Mean MELD value, before TIPS placement, was 15.7 ± 5.3. TIPS placement led to an effective resolution of refractory ascites in 54% of patients (n = 40) with no significant increase in severe portosystemic encephalopathy. The 1-year survival rate observed was 65.7%, while the overall mortality was 23.3% (n = 17) with a mean survival of 17 ± 14 months. MELD score (B = 0.161, p = 0.042), basal AST (B = 0.020, p = 0.090), and pre-TIPS HVPG (B = 0.016, p = 0.093) were independent predictors of overall mortality, while MELD (B = 0.419, p = 0.018) and HVPG (B = 0.223, p = 0.060) independently predicted 1-year survival. ROC curves identified MELD ≥ 19 and HVPG ≥ 25 mmHg as the best cut-off points for the prediction of 1-year mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

TIPS is an effective treatment for refractory ascites in cirrhotic patients, leading to an effective ascites control in more than half patients. Improvement in patients' selection criteria could lead to better outcome and survival after this procedure. Liver function (MELD), presence of active necroinflammation (AST), and portal hypertension (HVPG) are independent predictors of patients' outcome after TIPS.

Clinical outcome and predictors of survival after TIPS insertion in patients with liver cirrhosis

AIM: To determine the clinical outcome and predictors of survival after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent shunt (TIPS) implantation in cirrhotic patients.

METHODS: Eighty-one patients with liver cirrhosis and consequential portal hypertension had TIPS implantation (bare metal) for either refractory ascites (RA) (n = 27) or variceal bleeding (VB) (n = 54). Endpoints for the study were: technical success, stent occlusion and stent stenosis, rebleeding, RA and mortality. Clinical records of patients were collected and analysed. Baseline characteristics [e.g., age, sex, CHILD score and the model for end-stage liver disease score (MELD score), underlying disease] were retrieved. The Kaplan-Meier method was employed to calculate survival from the time of TIPS implantation 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 were expressed as medians and ranges. Comparisons between groups were performed by using the Mann-Whitney U-test and the χ² test as appropriate.

RESULTS: No difference could be seen in terms of age, sex, underlying disease or degree of portal pressure gradient (PPG) reduction between the ascites and the bleeding group. The PPG significantly decreased from 23.4 ± 5.3 mmHg (VB) vs 22.1 ± 5.5 mmHg (RA) before TIPS to 11.8 ± 4.0 vs 11.7 ± 4.2 after TIPS implantation (P = 0.001 within each group). There was a tendency towards more patients with stage CHILD A in the bleeding group compared to the ascites group (24 vs 6, P = 0.052). The median survival for the ascites group was 29 mo compared to > 60 mo for the bleeding group (P = 0.009). The number of radiological controls for stent patency was 6.3 for bleeders and 3.8 for ascites patients (P = 0.029). Kaplan-Meier calculation indicated that stent occlusion at first control (P = 0.027), ascites prior to TIPS implantation (P = 0.009), CHILD stage (P = 0.013), MELD score (P = 0.001) and those patients not having undergone liver transplantation (P = 0.024) were significant predictors of survival. In the Cox regression model, stent occlusion (P = 0.022), RA (P = 0.043), CHILD stage (P = 0.015) and MELD score (P = 0.004) turned out to be independent prognostic factors of survival. The anticoagulation management (P = 0.097), the porto-systemic pressure gradient (P = 0.460) and rebleeding episodes (P = 0.765) had no significant effect on the overall survival.

CONCLUSION: RA, stent occlusion, initial CHILD stage and MELD score are independent predictors of survival in patients with TIPS, speaking for a close follow-up in these circumstances.

[Portosystemic shunt surgery between TIPS and liver transplantation]

Portosystemic shunt surgery in addition to transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) insertion must still be regarded as a current treatment option for portomesenteric decompression in patients with pharmacological and endoscopic treatment failure, where liver transplantation is not imminent. This applies to secondary prophylaxis of rebleeding from varices in patients with well preserved liver function, e.g. liver cirrhosis CHILD A or extrahepatic portal vein thrombosis. Even if emergency endoscopy represents the treatment of choice in the acute bleeding situation, latest data from San Diego on emergency portacaval shunt surgery are encouraging. Likewise, portacaval shunt procedures can be an attractive alternative to TIPS or liver transplantation for acute Budd-Chiari syndrome or veno-occlusive disease.This article is an update on the systematics and methodology of portacaval shunt surgery, emphasizing the significance of this treatment option based on latest studies.

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in the management of refractory ascites

The purpose of this article is to describe the pathophysiological basis for the use of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) in patients with cirrhosis and refractory ascites, the short- and long-term hemodynamic, biochemical, and hormonal changes after TIPS, and the results of controlled trials of TIPS in cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites. TIPS placement is associated with normalization of sinusoidal pressure and a significant improvement in urinary sodium excretion that correlates with suppression of plasma renin activity (indicative of an improvement in effective arterial blood volume). Although effective in preventing the recurrence of ascites, the efficacy of TIPS is offset by an increase in the incidence of severe hepatic encephalopathy, a high incidence of shunt dysfunction, and a higher cost without an overall survival benefit, which should be reevaluated in light of polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stents. TIPS placement is currently indicated in seleceted cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites who require more than two to three large-volume paracenteses per month.

Cost-Effective Analysis of Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt versus Surgical Portacaval Shunt for Variceal Bleeding in Early Cirrhosis

Upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage carries significant morbidity and mortality in patients with portal hypertension and cirrhosis. The optimal prevention strategy for rebleeding in these patients remains controversial with respect to the safety and efficacy of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) versus a portocaval surgical shunt (PC). We sought to determine the long-term cost-effectiveness of these two treatments. A Markov state transition decision analysis was created and Monte Carlo sensitivity analysis performed to follow patients with early cirrhosis who have an upper gastrointestinal bleed despite medical therapy into either TIPS or PC. Patients were followed throughout the transition states until either death or survival. Probabilities of gastrointestinal rebleed, hepatic encephalopathy, surgical and TIPS-related complications as well as death were obtained from an extensive literature review. Costs were derived from average Medicare reimbursements. The main outcome was dollars per life-year saved. For patients with mild to moderate cirrhosis with upper gastrointestinal variceal bleed, the average cost per life year saved was $17,771 (SD = 471) and $21,438 (SD = 308) for TIPS and PC, respectively. The average life expectancy was 5.0 years and 7.0 years for TIPS and PC, respectively. This yielded an incremental cost-effectiveness rate for portocaval shunt of $3,299 per life year saved. Compared with TIPS, surgical PC shunt resulted in improved survival with minimal increase in cost. Therefore, given the low incremental cost of PC, it should be adopted as a cost-effective strategy in managing this patient population.

Surgical Shunting versus Transjugular Intrahepatic Portasystemic Shunting for Bleeding Varices Resulting from Portal Hypertension and Cirrhosis: A Meta-Analysis

Surgical shunting was the mainstay in treating portal hypertension for years. Recently, trans-jugular intrahepatic portasystemic shunting (TIPS) has replaced surgical shunting, first as a “bridge” to transplantation and ultimately as first-line therapy for bleeding varices. This study was undertaken to examine evidence from trials comparing TIPS with surgical shunting to reassess the role of surgery in treating portal hypertension. The National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health were searched for clinical trials comparing surgical shunting with TIPS. Meta-analysis using the fixed effects model was undertaken with end points of 30-day and 1- and 2-year survival and shunt failure (inability to complete shunt, irreversible shunt occlusion, major rehemorrhage, unanticipated liver transplantation, death). Three prospective randomized trials and one retrospective case-controlled study were identified. Analysis was limited to patients of Child Classes A or B. Significantly better 2-year survival (OR 2.5 [1.2-5.2]) and significantly less frequent shunt failure (OR 0.3 [0.1-0.9]) were seen in patients undergoing surgical shunting compared with TIPS. Meta-analysis promotes surgical shunting relative to TIPS because of improved survival and less frequent shunt failure. Surgical shunting should be accepted as first-line therapy for bleeding varices resulting from portal hypertension.

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt: an analysis of outcomes

BACKGROUND

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) are utilized for the management of complications of portal hypertension, particularly diuretic-resistant ascites and recurrent variceal bleeding. It has also been applied in Budd-Chiari syndrome and hepatorenal syndrome. We report the results in a small series, over 9 years, from a single centre, and compare these to those published in the literature.

METHODS

A retrospective case note review of 20 consecutive TIPS procedures performed at Flinders Medical Centre from January 1997 to December 2005 was completed. All indications were included in the analysis. Underlying liver disease, peri-procedure complications, relief of symptoms and patient survival were recorded. Data on type of TIPS, shunt patency and method of follow-up were recorded.

RESULTS

Thirty-six TIPS were performed in 20 subjects. All initial TIPS attempts were successful. Indications were: refractory ascites (18), acute variceal bleeding (12) and hepatorenal syndrome (2). There were no peri-procedure deaths, however. Ninety-day mortality was 20%. Outcomes in model of end-stage liver disease score and biochemical characteristics post-TIPS were comparable to those reported. Overall, TIPS dysfunction rate was 35% at 1 year. TIPS follow-up and patency surveillance was an ad hoc combination of Doppler ultrasound and venography.

CONCLUSION

TIPS procedure outcomes in our centre are similar to those reported in the literature from large centres. TIPS patency rates may be improved with regular monitoring and early intervention when stenosis occurs.

Factors predicting survival after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt creation: 15 years' experience from a single tertiary medical center

PURPOSE

This retrospective analysis was conducted to identify factors predictive of survival after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients who underwent TIPS creation between January 1991 and December 2005 at a tertiary-care center were identified. Log-rank tests were used to compare the cumulative survival functions among groups of patients who underwent TIPS creation for various indications. Thirty-day mortality after TIPS creation was examined by logistic regression. Cox proportional-hazards analyses were performed to analyze the cumulative 90-day and 1-year survival. Selected variables such as creatinine, bilirubin, and International Normalized Ratio (INR) were assessed with respect to survival.

RESULTS

The study included 352 patients, of whom 229 (65.1%) were male. The mean age at the time of TIPS creation was 53.6 years (range, 21-82 y). A Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD) score greater than 15 was significantly associated with poor survival (P < .05) at 30 days, 90 days, and 1 year after TIPS creation. Independently, a serum total bilirubin level greater than 2.5 mg/dL, an INR greater than 1.4 (P < .05), and a serum creatinine level greater than 1.2 mg/dL were predictive of poor survival. Finally, age greater than 70 years was associated with poor survival at 90 days and 1 year after TIPS creation (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

The choice to create a TIPS in individuals whose MELD score is greater than 15 and/or whose age is greater than 70 years should involve a careful consideration of risk/benefit ratio, taking into account the finding that such patients have significantly poorer survival after TIPS creation.

Child-Pugh-Turcott versus Meld score for predicting survival in a retrospective cohort of black African cirrhotic patients

AIM: To compare the performance of the Child-Pugh-Turcott (CPT) score to that of the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score in predicting survival of a retrospective cohort of 172 Black African patients with cirrhosis on a short and mid-term basis.

METHODS: Univariate and multivariate (Cox model) analyses were used to identify factors related to mortality. Relationship between the two scores was appreciated by calculating the correlation coefficient. The Kaplan Meier method and the log rank test were used to elaborate and compare survival respectively. The Areas Under the Curves were used to compare the performance between scores at 3, 6 and 12 mo.

RESULTS: The study population comprised 172 patients, of which 68.9% were male. The mean age of the patient was 47.5 ± 13 years. Hepatitis B virus infection was the cause of cirrhosis in 70% of the cases. The overall mortality was 31.4% over 11 years of follow up. Independent factors significantly associated with mortality were: CPT score (HR = 3.3, 95% CI [1.7-6.2]) (P < 0.001) (stage C vs stage A-B); Serum creatine (HR = 2.5, 95% CI [1.4-4.3]) (P = 0.001) (Serum creatine > 1.5 mg/dL versus serum creatine < 1.5 mg/dL); MELD score (HR = 2.9, 95% CI [1.63-5.21]) (P < 0.001) (MELD > 21 vs MELD < 21). The area under the curves (AUC) that predict survival was 0.72 and 0.75 at 3 mo (P = 0.68), 0.64 and 0.62 at 6 mo (P = 0.67), 0.69 and 0.64 at 12 mo (P = 0.38) respectively for the CPT score and the MELD score.

CONCLUSION: The CPT score displays the same prognostic significance as does the MELD score in black African patients with cirrhosis. Moreover, its handling appears less cumbersome in clinical practice as compared to the latter.

Survival and variceal rehemorrhage after shunting support small-diameter prosthetic H-graft portacaval shunt

This study was undertaken to report variceal rebleeding and survival after small-diameter prosthetic H-graft portacaval shunts (HGPCS) and to compare actual to predicted survival after shunting. Since 1987 we have prospectively followed patients after undergoing HGPCS to treat bleeding varices failing/not amenable to sclerotherapy/banding. One hundred and seventy patients underwent shunting. Cirrhosis was because of alcohol in 56%, hepatitis in 12%, both in 11%, and other causes in 21%. Child class was A for 10%, B for 28%, and C for 62%. Thirty-three patients died by 6 months, 54 by 24 months, 87 by 60 months, and 112 by 10 years, generally because of liver failure. Fifty-one patients are alive at a median of 48.3 months, 76 months +/- 57.8 (mean +/- SD). Variceal rehemorrhage was documented in 3 (2%) patients. By child class, 5-year/10-year survival rates were as follows: A 66.7/33.3%, B 48.6/15.6%, and C 29.2/7.0%. Actual survival was superior to predicted survival (Model for End-Stage Liver Disease [MELD]), (p < 0.001). Variceal rehemorrhage in patients undergoing small-diameter prosthetic H-graft portacaval shunting was very uncommon. Actual survival was superior to predicted survival (MELD). Long-term survival paralleled degree of hepatic function, although long-term survival was possible even with very advanced cirrhosis. Application of HGPCS is encouraged.

Safety and Efficacy of TIPS in Patients with Hemophilia and Cirrhosis

The prevalence of portal hypertension and its complications is increasing among patients with hemophilia and cirrhosis. The authors evaluated the safety and efficacy of transjugular intrahepatic postosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement in this population. A retrospective analysis was performed of adult patients who underwent TIPS placement at a single center. Four patients with hemophilia and cirrhosis were identified. Outcome measures included technical success and complications, recurrent gastrointestinal hemorrhage, shunt patency, hepatic encephalopathy, ascites control, and mortality. With periprocedural factor VIII supplementation, TIPS were placed in all patients without complications and with improvement in portal hypertension. Outcomes after TIPS placement appear to be comparable to those in patients without hemophilia.

Nutrition in alcoholic liver disease

Liver disease secondary to alcohol ranges from alcoholic fatty liver disease to acute hepatitis to cirrhotic liver disease. It is imperative that alcohol be discontinued to allow for any potential improvement in liver function, with most benefit being seen in the early stages of the disease. Alcoholic liver disease has a profound effect on nutrient intake, nutrition status, and metabolism, contributing to a high prevalence of malnutrition in this population. Early intervention with nutrition therapy may improve response to treatment, alleviate symptoms, and improve quality and quantity of life. In this review, nutrition assessment parameters and medical nutrition therapy goals for alcoholic liver disease are discussed.

The transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt for the management of cirrhotic refractory ascites

Cirrhotic ascites results from sinusoidal hypertension and sodium retention, which is secondary to a decreased effective arterial blood volume. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement is currently indicated in cirrhotic patients with refractory ascites who require large-volume paracentesis (LVP) more than two or three times per month. TIPS placement is associated with normalization of sinusoidal pressure and a significant improvement in urinary sodium excretion that correlates with suppression of plasma renin activity, which is, itself, indicative of an improvement in effective arterial blood volume. Compared with serial LVP, placement of an uncovered TIPS stent is more effective at preventing ascites from recurring; however, increased incidence of hepatic encephalopathy and shunt dysfunction rates after TIPS placement are important issues that increase its cost. Although evidence suggests that TIPS placement might result in better patient survival, this needs to be confirmed, particularly in light of the development of polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stents. Favorable results apply to centers experienced in placing the TIPS, with the aim being to decrease the portosystemic gradient to <12 mmHg but >5 mmHg. This article reviews the pathophysiologic basis for the use of a TIPS in patients with refractory ascites, the results of controlled trials comparing TIPS placement (using uncovered stents) versus LVP, and a systematic review of predictors of death after TIPS placement for refractory ascites.

Portal hypertension

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Significant advances in the pathophysiology, diagnosis and management of the complications of portal hypertension that have occurred in the last year are reported.

RECENT FINDINGS

The specific areas reviewed are those that refer to experimental studies aimed at modifying the factors that lead to portal hypertension (increased intrahepatic vascular resistance and splanchnic vasodilatation) and recent advances in the diagnosis and management of the complications of portal hypertension. The specific complications reviewed in this paper are varices and variceal bleeding (primary prophylaxis, treatment of the acute episode and secondary prophylaxis), ascites and hepatorenal syndrome, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and hepatic encephalopathy, as well as recent studies of predictors of death in cirrhosis.

SUMMARY

Important studies, mostly prospective, regarding the management of the complications of portal hypertension are reviewed, including a trial of beta-blockers in the prevention of varices, a randomized trial of endoscopic variceal ligation plus nadolol in preventing recurrent variceal bleeding and several meta-analyses on trials comparing large-volume paracentesis with transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in the management of refractory ascites.