Portal Hypertension
Portal hypertension means increased pressure in the portal vein system, which carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver. Cirrhosis is a common cause. The condition can lead to enlarged veins, abdominal fluid and bleeding.
Symptoms
Abdominal swelling from ascites, enlarged abdominal veins, enlarged spleen or bleeding from varices. Some people are diagnosed during investigation of liver disease.
How interventional radiology treats it
TIPS creates a channel within the liver connecting the portal vein to a hepatic vein, reducing pressure in the portal system. It may help selected patients with complications such as recurrent variceal bleeding or ascites. Careful assessment is needed because TIPS can cause complications, including worsening confusion in some patients.
Whether this treatment suits you depends on your scans and overall health. A consultation is the first step.
Your doctors
Talk to an interventional radiologist.
Bring any scans or reports you have. We’ll tell you whether this treatment is an option.