The history and future of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt: food for thought

Endoscopic Glue Injection vs Glue Plus BRTO or TIPSS for Preventing Gastric Variceal Bleeding: A Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The study sought to compare the efficacy of endoscopic injection sclerotherapy with cyanoacrylate glue (EIS-CYA) vs EIS-CYA plus a radiologic intervention (RI) (either transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt or balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration) for secondary prophylaxis in patients with liver cirrhosis who presented with acute variceal bleeding from cardiofundal varices. Primary outcome measure was gastric varix (GV) rebleed rates at 1 year.

METHODS

Consecutive cirrhosis patients with acute variceal bleeding from cardiofundal varices were randomized into 2 arms (45 in each) after primary hemostasis by EIS-CYA. In the endoscopic intervention (EI) arm, EIS-CYA was repeated at regular intervals (1, 3, 6, and 12 months), while in the RI arm, patients underwent transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt or balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration followed by endoscopic surveillance.

RESULTS

GV rebleed rates at 1 year were higher in the EI arm compared with the RI arm: 11 (24.4%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 12.9%-39.5%) vs 1 (2.2%; 95% CI, 0.1%-11.8%) (P = .004; absolute risk difference: 22.2%; 95% CI, 8.4%-36.6%). GV rebleed-related mortality in the EI arm (8 [17.8%; 95% CI, 8.0%-32.1%]) was significantly higher than in the RI arm (1 [2.2%; 0.1%-11.8%]) (P = .030; absolute risk difference: 15.6; 95% CI, 2.9%-29.2%); however, there was no difference in all-cause mortality between the 2 groups (12 [26.7%; 95% CI, 14.6%-41.9%] vs 7 [15.6%; 95% CI, 6.5%-29.5%]). The number needed to treat to prevent 1 GV-related rebleed at 1 year was 4.5.

CONCLUSIONS

RI for secondary prophylaxis reduces rebleeding from GV and GV rebleeding-related mortality in patients with GV hemorrhage. (CTRI/2021/02/031396).

Effect of TIPS insertion on waitlist mortality and access to liver transplantation in Budd-Chiari syndrome

The impact of TIPS on waitlist mortality and liver transplantation (LT) urgency in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) remains unclear. We analyzed patients with BCS listed for LT in the UNOS database (2002-2024) to assess TIPS's impact on waitlist mortality and LT access through competing-risk analysis. We compared trends across 2 phases: phase 1 (2002-2011) and phase 2 (2012-2024). Of 815 patients with BCS, 263 (32.3%) received TIPS at listing. TIPS group had lower MELD-Na scores (20 vs. 22, p < 0.01), milder ascites ( p = 0.01), and fewer Status 1 patients (those at risk of imminent death while awaiting LT) (2.7% vs. 8.3%, p < 0.01) at listing compared to those without TIPS. TIPS patients had lower LT rates (43.3% vs. 56.5%, p < 0.01) and longer waitlist times (350 vs. 113 d, p < 0.01). TIPS use increased in phase 2 (64.3% vs. 35.7%, p < 0.01). Of 426 patients who underwent transplantation, 134 (31.5%) received TIPS, showing lower MELD-Na scores (24 vs. 27, p < 0.01) and better medical conditions (intensive care unit: 14.9% vs. 21.9%, p < 0.01) at LT. Status 1 patients were fewer (3.7% vs. 12.3%, p < 0.01), with longer waiting days (97 vs. 26 d, p < 0.01) in the TIPS group. TIPS use at listing increased from phase 1 (25.6%) to phase 2 (37.7%). From phase 1 to phase 2, ascites severity improved, re-LT cases decreased (phase 1: 9.8% vs. phase 2: 2.2%, p < 0.01), and cold ischemic time slightly decreased (phase 1: 7.0 vs. phase 2: 6.4 h, p = 0.14). Median donor body mass index significantly increased. No significant differences were identified in patient/graft survival at 1-/5-/10-year intervals between phases or TIPS/non-TIPS patients. While 90-day waitlist mortality showed no significant difference ( p = 0.11), TIPS trended toward lower mortality (subhazard ratio [sHR]: 0.70 [0.45-1.08]). Multivariable analysis indicated that TIPS was a significant factor in decreasing mortality (sHR: 0.45 [0.27-0.77], p < 0.01). TIPS group also showed significantly lower LT access (sHR: 0.65 [0.53-0.81], p < 0.01). Multivariable analysis showed that TIPS was a significant factor in decreasing access to LT (sHR: 0.60 [0.46-0.77], p < 0.01). Subgroup analysis excluding Status 1 or HCC showed similar trends. TIPS in patients with BCS listed for LT reduces waitlist mortality and LT access, supporting its bridging role.

Efficacy and safety of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma-A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and cirrhosis can present with features of severe portal hypertension, which can be worsened further by portal vein tumoral thrombosis (PVTT). Due to the technical difficulties and short survival of these patients, HCC was traditionally considered a relative contra-indication for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). However, there is an increasing body of evidence, mainly from China, supporting the use of TIPS in HCC. The present study aimed at analyzing the efficacy and safety of TIPS in patients with HCC.

METHODS

From 2000 through May 2023, MEDLINE, Embase and Scopus were searched for studies analyzing the outcome of TIPS in HCC. Technical and clinical success, adverse events (AE) and mortality were the main outcomes assessed. With the use of a random effects model, the event rates were combined.

RESULTS

Total 19 studies with 1498 patients were included in the final analysis. The pooled technical and clinical success rates with TIPS in HCC were 98.8% (98.0-99.7) and 94.1% (91.2-97.0), respectively. After TIPS, ascites was controlled in 89.2% (85.1-93.3) of the cases, while rebleeding was observed in 17.2% (9.4-25.0) of cases on follow-up. The pooled incidence of overall AE, serious AE and post-TIPS hepatic encephalopathy (HE) was 5.2% (2.5-7.9), 0.1% (0.0-0.4) and 25.1% (18.7-31.5), respectively. On follow-up, 11.9% (7.8-15.9) of the patients developed shunt dysfunction requiring re-intervention.

CONCLUSION

The present analysis supports the feasibility, safety and efficacy of TIPS in the management of portal hypertension in patients with HCC.

Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt: An Update

It is more than 50 years since the concept of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) was first introduced as a percutaneous procedure for patients with refractory variceal bleeding and ascites. TIPS has become widely accepted in the management of complications of portal hypertension because it is less invasive than surgery. In the early days of TIPS, complications included the poor long-term patency of the stent and a high incidence of hepatic encephalopathy. In addition, an excessive shunt diameter after TIPS often resulted in severe hepatic encephalopathy. Although recent covered stents have significantly reduced shunt dysfunction, the development of hepatic encephalopathy and early liver failure remain to be crucial post-TIPS complications. This study reviews the current literature on the status of TIPS in the treatment of cirrhosis.

Advances in the management of complications from cirrhosis

Cirrhosis with complications of liver decompensation and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) constitute a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Portal hypertension is central to the progression of liver disease and decompensation. The most recent Baveno VII guidance included revision of the nomenclature for chronic liver disease, termed compensated advanced chronic liver disease, and leveraged the use of liver stiffness measurement to categorize the degree of portal hypertension. Additionally, non-selective beta blockers, especially carvedilol, can improve portal hypertension and may even have a survival benefit. Procedural techniques with interventional radiology have become more advanced in the management of refractory ascites and variceal bleeding, leading to improved prognosis in patients with decompensated liver disease. While lactulose and rifaximin are the preferred treatments for hepatic encephalopathy, many alternative treatment options may be used in refractory cases and even procedural interventions such as shunt embolization may be of benefit. The approval of terlipressin for the treatment of hepatorenal syndrome (HRS) in the USA has improved the way in which HRS is managed and will be discussed in detail. Malnutrition, frailty, and sarcopenia lead to poorer outcomes in patients with decompensated liver disease and should be addressed in this patient population. Palliative care interventions can lead to improved quality of life and clinical outcomes. Lastly, the investigation of systemic therapies, in particular immunotherapy, has revolutionized the management of HCC. These topics will be discussed in detail in this review.

Milestones to optimize of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt technique as a method for the treatment of portal hypertension complications

This editorial describes the milestones to optimize of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) technique, which have made it one of the main methods for the treatment of portal hypertension complications worldwide. Innovative ideas, subsequent experimental studies and preliminary experience of use in cirrhotic patients contributed to the introduction of TIPS into clinical practice. At the moment, the main achievement in optimize of TIPS technique is progress in the qualitative characteristics of stents. The transition from bare metal stents to extended polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stent grafts made it possible to significantly prevent shunt dysfunction. However, the question of its preferred diameter, which contributes to an optimal reduction of portal pressure without the risk of developing post-TIPS hepatic encephalopathy, remains relevant. Currently, hepatic encephalopathy is one of the most common complications of TIPS, significantly affecting its effectiveness and prognosis. Careful selection of patients based on cognitive indicators, nutritional status, assessment of liver function, etc., will reduce the incidence of post-TIPS hepatic encephalopathy and improve treatment results. Optimize of TIPS technique has significantly expanded the indications for its use and made it one of the main methods for the treatment of portal hypertension complications. At the same time, there are a number of limitations and unresolved issues that require further randomized controlled trials involving a large cohort of patients.

Outcomes of Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding at United States Teaching and Non-teaching Hospitals: A National Inpatient Sample Analysis

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Studies have varied results regarding the impact of the teaching and non-teaching status of hospitals on the outcomes for hospitalized patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB). To evaluate these outcomes, we conducted a retrospective cohort study using the 2014 National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database.

METHODS

We included all adult patients who were admitted with the principal diagnosis of UGIB. Patients admitted to rural and urban non-teaching hospitals were classified as non-teaching, whereas those admitted to urban teaching hospitals were classified as teaching. The main outcomes of interest were in-hospital mortality, percentage of patients requiring inpatient endoscopy, and endoscopic therapy, packed red blood cell (PRBC) transfusion, length of stay (LOS), and total hospitalization charges.

RESULTS

The study included 132,085 (97%) with nonvariceal UGIB (NVUGIB) and 4,200 (3%) with variceal UGIB (VUGIB). Of them, 62% were managed at teaching hospitals. Compared with admitted patients at non-teaching hospitals, patients with nonvariceal UGIB admitted at teaching hospitals had similar adjusted in-hospital mortality rates (adjusted odds ratio (OR): 0.97, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.79-1.19), inpatient endoscopy rates (OR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.91-1.1), and early endoscopy rates (within 24 hours) (OR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.91-1.1) and lower PRBC transfusion rates (OR: 0.87, 95% CI: 0.79-0.97) but higher endoscopic therapy rates (OR: 1.3, 95% CI: 1.2-1.4), length of stay (mean increase of 0.43 days) (P<0.01), and total hospital charges (mean increase of $4,369) (P<0.01). Patients with variceal UGIB had similar adjusted in-hospital mortality rates (OR: 1.2, 95% CI: 0.61-2.3), inpatient endoscopy rates (OR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.67-1.4), early endoscopy rates (within 24 hours) (OR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.67-1.4), endoscopic therapy rates (OR: 2.5, 95% CI: 0.54- 11.2), and total hospital charges (P=0.45), and lower PRBC transfusion rates (OR: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.45-0.88) but higher length of stay (mean increase of 0.69 days) (P=0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with nonvariceal UGIB treated at US teaching hospitals and non-teaching hospitals have similar mortality, rates of in-hospital endoscopy, and early endoscopy, but teaching hospitals have higher rates of in-hospital therapeutic endoscopy, length of stay, and total hospital charges. There was no difference in any of the outcomes for variceal gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding treated at teaching hospitals compared with those treated at non-teaching hospitals, except for length of stay, which was higher among patients admitted to teaching hospitals compared to those admitted to non-teaching hospitals.

Hemodynamics of vascular shunts: trends, challenges, and prospects

Vascular bypass surgery takes a significant place in the treatment of vascular disease. According to various assessments, this type of surgery is associated with almost 20 % of all vascular surgery episodes (up to 23 % according to the Federal Neurosurgical Center of Novosibirsk). Even though the problem of using of vascular grafts is obvious and natural, many problems associated with them are not still elucidated. From the mechanics' point of view, a vascular bypass is a converging or diverging tee, and the functioning of such structures still does not have strict mathematical formulations and proofs in the general case, which forces many researchers to solve specific engineering problems associated with shunting. Mathematical modeling, which is the gold standard for virtual simulations of industrial and medical problems, faces great difficulties and limitations in solving problems for vascular bypasses. Complications in the treatment of the vascular disease may follow the difficulties in mathematical modeling, and the price can be a cardiac arrest or a stroke. This work is devoted to the main aspects of the medical application of vascular bypasses and their functioning as a mechanical system, as well the mathematical aspects of their possible setup.

Closure of a distal splenorenal shunt as a therapy for refractory hyperammonaemia in setting of neuropsychiatric symptoms

Before the widespread use of the transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt, portal hypertension was addressed by the creation of an operative distal splenorenal shunt (DSRS). DSRS was largely regarded as a safe and effective therapy, though it did have a risk of precipitating hyperammonaemia and hepatic encephalopathy.A woman suffered a gunshot wound to the abdomen. This trauma led to portal vein thrombosis, cavernous transformation of the vein and eventually bleeding oesophageal varices from portal hypertension. A DSRS was created to decrease portal hypertension. Years later, she had profound depression with psychomotor slowing in the setting of hyperammonaemia. To reduce hepatic encephalopathy as a contributor to her neuropsychiatric condition, her shunt was closed. The hyperammonaemia resolved and neuropsychiatric symptoms improved.This case highlights several interesting clinical features, including portal hypertension due to chronic portal vein occlusion, cavernous transformation, a surgical DSRS causing hyperammonaemia and hepatic encephalopathy manifesting as neuropsychiatric symptoms.

Bad Connection: Stent-to-Stent Fistulization After Common Bile Duct and Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Stenting

A 29-year-old man with chronic portal venous thrombosis resulting in portal biliopathy required stenting of his common bile duct (CBD) and underwent a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedure to decrease portal pressures. He later presented with abdominal pain in the setting of prolonged CBD stent placement and was found to have air within his TIPS stent with a fistula on endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography between his fully covered CBD stent and bare metal TIPS stent. There was concern that further intervention would lead to an air embolus. We suggest that when multiple stents are indicated, stent selection with close monitoring is critical.

The Portosystemic Shunt for the Control of Variceal Bleeding in Cirrhotic Patients: Past and Present

Based on an experience of more than 50 years in the treatment of portal hypertension (PHT), the authors review and analyze the evolution of the surgical portocaval shunt (PCS). We would like to provide an insight into the past of PCS, in order to compare it with the current state of the treatment of PHT complications. As a landmark of the past, we shall present statistics of more than 500 cases of PHT operated between 1968 and 1983. From this group, 238 patients underwent surgical portocaval shunting during a fifteen-year period. The behavior of the portal hemodynamics following PCS was studied and the postoperative decrease in portal pressure (PP), as well as the residual PP, were recorded. The portal manometric determinations were made by electronic recordings using the Hellige device and direct intraoperative recordings through the catheterization of a ramus in the portal area. The results of PCS are superposable, in terms of hemodynamic efficiency, with those of the intrahepatic shunt (TIPS-transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt). The authors discuss the current place of PCS, in obvious decline in comparison with the situation 50 years ago. The current methods of controlling variceal bleeding represent obvious progress. PCS remains with very limited indications, in specific situations when the other therapeutic methods have failed or are not recommended.

Intraoperative and postoperative impact of pretransplantation transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts in orthotopic liver transplantations: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) remains the definitive treatment for patients afflicted with end-stage liver disease (ESLD). Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) have been adapted as a bridge to transplantation, allowing partial normalization of portal pressure and associated symptom improvement. Conflicting evidence exists on TIPS' impact on operative procedures. This study aimed to analyze available evidence on patients who underwent OLT with prior TIPS compared to OLT alone with the intent to determine TIPS' impact on surgical outcomes.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Following PRISMA guidelines, a systematic review was conducted, identifying studies comparing TIPS + OLT versus OLT alone in patients with ESLD. Data were analyzed using Review Manager 5.3.

RESULTS

Thirteen studies were included. Operative time, packed red blood cells transfusions, intensive care unit admission, length of stay, dialysis, serum creatinine levels, ascites, vascular complications, bleeding revisions, reintervention, and other complications rates were similar between both groups. Fresh frozen plasma transfusion -2.88 units (-5.42, -0.35; p= 0.03), was lower in the TIPS + OLT group.

CONCLUSION

Our study found TIPS can be safely employed without having detrimental impacts on OLT outcomes, furthermore, these findings also suggest TIPS does not increase bleeding or complications.

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts in portal vein thrombosis: A review

The presence of portal vein thrombosis (PVT) has previously been considered a contraindication to the insertion of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPSS). However, patients with PVT may have portal hypertension complications and may thus benefit from TIPSS to reduce portal venous pressure. There is an increasing body of literature that discusses the techniques and outcomes of TIPSS in PVT. This review summarizes the techniques, indications and outcomes of TIPSS in PVT in published case reports, case series and comparative trials, especially regarding the reduction in portal hypertensive complications such as variceal bleeding. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using MEDLINE and PubMed databases. Manuscripts published in English between 1 January 1990 and 1 March 2021 were used. Abstracts were screened and data from potentially relevant articles analyzed. TIPSS in PVT has been reported with high levels of technical success, short-term portal vein recanalization and long-term PV patency and TIPSS patency outcomes. Several comparative studies, including randomized controlled trials, have shown favorable outcomes of TIPSS compared with non-TIPSS treatment of PVT complications. Outcomes of TIPSS with PVT appear similar to those in TIPSS without PVT. However, TIPSS may be more technically difficult in the presence of PVT, and such procedures should be performed in expert high-volume centers to mitigate the risk of procedural complications. The presence of PVT should no longer be considered a contraindication to TIPSS. TIPSS for PVT has been acknowledged as a therapeutic strategy in recent international guidelines, although further studies are needed before recommendations can be strengthened. KEY POINTS: Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is no longer a contraindication to the insertion of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPSS) TIPSS often leads to the spontaneous dissolution of PVT, but can be combined with mechanical or pharmacological thrombectomy TIPSS reduces portal hypertensive complications of PVT, such as variceal bleeding, and can also facilitate liver transplantation where PVT may otherwise interfere with vascular anastomoses Studies have shown favorable long-term outcomes of TIPSS compared with TIPSS without PVT; as well as compared with non-TIPSS treatment of PVT complications TIPSS in PVT should be performed in high-volume specialist centers due to technical difficulties.

Economic evaluation of covered stents for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent shunt in patients with variceal bleeding and refractory ascites secondary to cirrhosis

OBJECTIVES

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent shunt (TIPSS) is clinically effective in variceal bleeding and refractory ascites; however, the cost-effectiveness of TIPSS has yet to be evaluated in the UK. This study aimed to establish the cost-effectiveness of (i) pre-emptive TIPSS versus endoscopic band ligation (EBL) in populations with variceal bleeding and (ii) TIPSS versus large volume paracentesis (LVP) in refractory ascites.

METHODS

A cost-utility analysis was conducted with the perspective including healthcare costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). A Markov model was constructed with a 2-year time horizon, health states for mortality and survival and probabilities for the development of variceal bleeding, ascites and hepatic encephalopathy. A survival analysis was conducted to extrapolate 12-month to 24-month mortality for the refractory ascites indication. Uncertainty was analysed in deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyses.

RESULTS

TIPSS was cost-effective (dominant) and cost saving for both indications. For variceal bleeding, pre-emptive TIPSS resulted in 0.209 additional QALYs, and saved £600 per patient compared with EBL. TIPSS had a very high probability of being cost-effective (95%) but was not cost saving in scenario analyses driven by rates of variceal rebleeding. For refractory ascites, TIPSS resulted in 0.526 additional QALYs and saved £17 983 per patient and had a 100% probability of being cost-effective and cost saving when compared with LVP.

CONCLUSIONS

TIPSS is a cost-effective intervention for variceal bleeding and refractory ascites. TIPSS is highly cost-saving for refractory ascites. Robust randomised trial data are required to confirm whether pre-emptive TIPSS is cost saving for variceal bleeding.

Applying the original model for end-stage liver disease score rather than the model for end-stage liver disease-Na score for risk stratification prior to transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt procedures

OBJECTIVE

The model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score can be used to predict survival of patients undergoing transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt procedures (TIPS). The effect of hyponatremia on survival resulted in the development of the MELD-Na score. The aim of this study is to compare the prognostic value of MELD and MELD-Na scores in predicting post-TIPS outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review was performed on consecutive patients with cirrhosis who underwent TIPS placement from 2012 to 2017. Indications for TIPS were either refractory ascites or variceal bleeding. Primary outcomes analyzed were death or liver transplantation. Follow-up data were censored at 1 year.

RESULTS

Eighty-three patients underwent TIPS. There was no difference in MELD or MELD-Na score between indication groups. However, the delta MELD (MELD-Na subtracted by MELD score) was higher in those with refractory ascites. There was no difference in outcomes of death or liver transplantation between the MELD and MELD-Na at 1 year. (area under the curve 0.79 vs 0.72, respectively, P = 0.119). In patients with a MELD-Na greater than 18, higher delta MELD was protective (hazard ratio 0.74, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

There was no prognostic difference using either score despite a higher delta MELD in those with refractory ascites. The decision to pursue TIPS should utilize the original MELD score, as the MELD-Na score alone may exclude patients with refractory ascites who may benefit from TIPS.

Outcomes of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt procedures: a 10-year experience

INTRODUCTION

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPSS) is an effective modality in reducing portal pressure, and its current main indications are for the management of recurrent ascites and variceal bleeding. The demand and indications for TIPSS are growing. However, it is a complicated and technically demanding procedure with poorer outcomes associated with low volume centres. The aim of this study was, therefore, to review the outcomes of TIPSS at a 'low volume' single centre. Outcomes assessed included indications, safety, efficacy and survival.

METHODS

A retrospective study was undertaken of all patients who underwent a TIPSS procedure over 10 years at tertiary referral centre for complex liver disease and transplantation. Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate actuarial survival and log-rank analysis was used to determine significant differences in survival.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight patients underwent the TIPSS procedure between January 2008 and December 2018. Technical, haemodynamic and clinical success were 95%, 92% and 92% respectively. Cumulative survival at one month, one year and five years were 86.8%, 72% and 44.7% respectively. Results achieved standards published in practice parameters to evaluate TIPSS safety and efficacy.

CONCLUSION

At a low volume centre, TIPSS usage was associated with high rates of technical, haemodynamic (HPVG reduction) and clinical success. Low volume should not be a contraindication to providing a TIPSS service; however, auditing outcomes and understanding specific institutional factors that influence quality are important requirements for low volume centres.

The role of pre-emptive Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt in acute variceal bleeding: a literature review

The development of portal hypertension has serious implications in the natural history of liver cirrhosis, leading to complications such as ascites, hepatic encephalopathy and variceal bleeding. The management of acute variceal bleeding has improved in the last two decades, but despite the advances in endoscopic methods the overall prognosis remains poor, particularly within a subgroup of patients with more advanced disease. The role of Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPSS) is a well-established method of achieving haemostasis by immediate portal decompression; however, its use in an emergency setting as a rescue strategy is still associated with high mortality. It has been shown that 'early' use of TIPSS as a pre-emptive strategy in a patient with acute variceal bleed in addition to the standard of care confers superior survival outcomes in a subgroup of patients at high risk of treatment failure and death. The purpose of this review is to appraise the literature around the indications, patient selection, utility, complications and economic considerations of pre-emptive TIPSS.

Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunts Reduce Variceal Bleeding and Improve Survival in Patients with Cirrhosis: A Population-Based Analysis

PURPOSE

To investigate from a population health perspective the effects of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation on recurrent variceal bleeding and survival in patients with cirrhosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients with cirrhosis who presented to outpatient and acute-care hospitals in California (2005-2011) and Florida (2005-2014) with variceal bleeding comprised the study cohort. Patients entered the study cohort at their first presentation for variceal bleeding; all subsequent hospital encounters were then evaluated to determine subsequent interventions, complications, and mortality data.

RESULTS

A total of 655,577 patients with cirrhosis were identified, of whom 42,708 (6.5%) had at least 1 episode of variceal bleeding and comprised the study cohort. The median follow-up time was 2.61 years. A TIPS was created in 4,201 (9.8%) of these patients. There were significantly greater incidences of coagulopathy (83.9% vs 72.8%; P < .001), diabetes (45.5% vs 38.8%; P < .001), and hepatorenal syndrome (15.3% vs 12.5%; P < .001) in TIPS recipients vs those without a TIPS. Following propensity-score matching, TIPS recipients were found to have improved overall survival (82% vs 77% at 12 mo; P < .001) and a lower rate of recurrent variceal bleeding (88% vs 83% recurrent bleeding-free survival at 12 months,; P < .001) than patients without a TIPS. Patients with a TIPS had a significant increase in encounters for hepatic encephalopathy vs those without (1.01 vs 0.49 per year; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

TIPS improves recurrent variceal bleeding rates and survival in patients with cirrhosis complicated by variceal bleeding. However, TIPS creation is also associated with a significant increase in hepatic encephalopathy.

Hemolytic Anemia following Stent-Graft Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Creation

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation is a minimally invasive technique aimed at managing the complications of portal hypertension. Initially performed in the setting of variceal bleeding, the role of TIPS has expanded to treatment of medically refractory ascites, portal hypertensive gastropathy, hepatic hydrothorax, Budd-Chiari syndrome, portal vein thrombus, and hepatorenal syndrome. Potential complications from TIPS are well documented, and include hepatic encephalopathy, hepatic failure, and TIPS dysfunction. Hemolytic anemia is a lesser known complication related to TIPS creation. In this article, a case of hemolytic anemia following TIPS creation using a Viatorr stent-graft in described.

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.

[Gastroesophageal variceal bleeding in cirrhotic patients: the possibilities of effective hemostasis]

AIM

To improve the results of treatment of gastroesophageal variceal bleeding (GEVB) in cirrhotic patients with thrombocytopenia.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A total experience of the clinic includes 338 GEVB patients, endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) were performed in 162 and 157 cases respectively. Nevertheless, just the efficacy of initial pharmacological hemostatic therapy was analyzed.

RESULTS

Administration of serotonin adipinate 30-50 mg/day during 3-5 days in addition to standard initial therapy allowed us to achieve permanent hemostasis during initial treatment if EVL was impossible. Serotonin adipinate induces thrombocytes' adhesion and improves fibrin clot strength. This therapy markedly decreases mortality (33.3% vs 46.7%), incidence of recurrent bleeding (46.4% vs 60.0%). Also it contributes successful hemostasis with endoscopic ligation and effective portal decompression by TIPS procedure.

Management of portal hypertension before and after liver transplantation

Orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) represents a curative treatment option for end-stage liver disease (ESLD). Although epidemiology of ESLD has recently changed due to the rising prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and the decreased burden of hepatitis C virus infections due to highly effective antiviral regimens, the management of portal hypertension (PHT) remains a clinical challenge in the pre- and post-OLT setting. The measurement of the hepatic venous pressure gradient represents the most reliable but invasive tool for assessment of the severity of PHT. Although novel liver ultrasound and magnetic resonance-based elastography methods have been developed, their value to screen for liver fibrosis and PHT in transplanted patients remains to be established. Nonselective beta-blockers represent the cornerstone of medical treatment of PHT, but more studies on their effects on clinical endpoints after OLT are needed. Statins are widely used to treat hyperlipidemia, which is a common condition after OLT. Although a growing body of evidence suggests that statins decrease portal pressure and PHT-related complications in ESLD, studies on potential benefits of statins after OLT are lacking. Finally, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) are effective in decreasing PHT and seem to decrease mortality on the OLT waiting list. Moreover, TIPS does not have an impact on liver function nor complicate the transplant surgical procedures. TIPS may also be used after OLT, but the evidence is limited. In conclusion, whereas the management of PHT in patients with ESLD is based on strong evidence, further data on the value of noninvasive monitoring tools as well as on medical and invasive treatment options in the post-OLT setting are needed to improve management strategies in patients with recurrent PHT after liver transplantation. Liver Transplantation 24 112-121 2018 AASLD.

Risk factors for stent graft thrombosis after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt creation

Background

To identify risk factors of stent graft thrombosis after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation.

Methods

Patients who underwent TIPS creation between June 2003 and January 2016 and with follow-up assessing stent graft patency were included (n=174). Baseline comorbidities, liver function, procedural details and follow-up liver function tests were analyzed in association with hazards of thrombosis on follow-up. Competing risk cox regression models were used considering liver transplant after TIPS creation as the competing risk variable.

Results

One-, 2- and 5-year primary patency rates were 94.1%, 91.7% and 78.2%, respectively. Patient age [sub-hazard ratio (sHR): 1.13; P=0.001], body mass index (BMI) <30 (sHR: 33.08; P=0.008) and a higher post-TIPS portosystemic pressure gradient (sHR: 1.14; P=0.023) were significantly associated with TIPS thrombosis in multivariate analysis. A higher rate of TIPS thrombosis was observed in those for whom the procedure was clinically unsuccessful (P=0.014). A significant increase in incidence of thrombosis was noted with increasing tertiles of post-TIPS portosystemic gradients (P value for trend=0.017).

Conclusions

Older age, lower BMI and higher post-TIPS portosystemic gradients were associated with higher hazards of shunt thrombosis after TIPS creation using stent grafts. Higher rates of shunt thrombosis were seen in patients for whom TIPS creation was clinically unsuccessful. The association between TIPS thrombosis and higher post-TIPS portosystemic gradients may indicate impaired flow through the shunt, a finding which may be technical or anatomic in nature and should be assessed before procedure completion.

Inpatient Cost Assessment of Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt in the USA from 2001 to 2012

BACKGROUND

Despite widespread use of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) for treatment of portal hypertension, a paucity of nationwide data exists on predictors of the economic impact related to TIPS.

AIMS

Using the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database from 2001 to 2012, we aimed to evaluate factors contributing to hospital cost of patients admitted to US hospitals for TIPS.

METHODS

Using the NIS, we identified a discharge-weighted national estimate of 61,004 TIPS procedures from 2001 to 2012. Through independent sample analysis, we determined profile factors related to increases in hospital costs.

RESULTS

Of all TIPS cases, the mean charge adjusted for inflation to the year 2012 is $125,044 ± $160,115. The mean hospital cost adjusted for inflation is $44,901 ± $54,565. Comparing pre- and post-2005, mean charges and cost have increased considerably ($98,154 vs. $142,652, p < 0.001 and $41,656 vs. $46,453, p < 0.001, respectively). Patients transferred from a different hospital, weekend admissions, Asian/Pacific Islander patients, and hospitals in the Northeastern and Western region had higher cost. Number of diagnoses and number of procedures show positive correlations with hospital cost, with number of procedures exhibiting stronger relationships (Pearson 0.613). Comorbidity measures with highest increases in cost were pulmonary circulation disorders ($32,157 increase, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The cost of the TIPS procedure is gradually rising for hospitals. Alongside recent healthcare reform through the Affordable Care Act, measures to reduce the economic burden of TIPS are of increasing importance. Data from this study are intended to aid physicians and hospitals in identifying improvements that could reduce hospital costs.

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.