OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the use of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) and suprahepatic venous stenting in the management of Budd-Chiari syndrome, emphasizing the indications, technical aspects and the advantages of the procedure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Nine patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome were referred to the Hemodynamics Service of "Hospital São Lucas", Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil, for percutaneous procedure. Suprahepatic venous occlusion was detected in all cases using Doppler sonography. In the TIPS procedure, a snare loop was identified in the inferior vena cava just below the right atrium at the site of expected outflow of the occluded hepatic vein. After sonographic and fluoroscopic localization of the portal bifurcation, the needle was advanced into the portal vein and a stiff guide wire was introduced. Venography was performed and a stent was implanted. Follow-up color Doppler examinations were obtained in all cases at different intervals. RESULTS: Prominent hepatic venous stenosis was detected in three patients that were treated with suprahepatic stent implantation. Two of these patients required TIPS due to thrombosis of the stent. In the other six patients a TIPS creation was done. During follow-up, shunt dysfunction occurred in three of eight patients, requiring repeat intervention and insertion of another endoprostheses in two patients, mechanical thrombectomy and balloon dilatation in one and coil embolization of ectatic collaterals in another patient. CONCLUSION: TIPS is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of portal hypertension caused by Budd-Chiari syndrome, allowing clinical and hemodynamic improvement and avoiding invasive approaches.
Budd-Chiari syndrome; Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS); Suprahepatic occlusion
