Stenting of Inferior Right Hepatic Vein in a Patient with Budd-Chiari Syndrome: A Case Report

A Japanese man in his 20s was referred to our hospital with a two-month history of abdominal fullness and leg edema. Abdominal computed tomography revealing massive ascites and ostial blockage of the main hepatic veins, and angiographic evaluation demonstrating obstruction of the main hepatic veins yielded a diagnosis of Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). Diuretic agents were prescribed for the ascites but failed to provide relief. The patient was referred to our department for further evaluation and treatment. Angiography showed ostial obstruction of the main hepatic veins, with most of the portal hepatic flow draining from an inferior right hepatic vein (IRHV) into the inferior vena cava (IVC) thorough an intrahepatic portal venous and venovenous shunt. Access between the main hepatic veins and IVC was impossible, but cannulation between the IRHV and IVC was achieved. Because of the venovenous connection between the main hepatic vein and the IRHV, metallic stents were placed into two IRHVs to decrease congestion in the hepatic venous outflow. After stent placement followed by balloon expansion, the gradient pressure between the hepatic vein and IVC improved remarkably. The ascites and lower leg edema improved postoperatively, and long-term stent patency (6 years) was achieved.

Budd-Chiari syndrome in children: Radiological intervention and role of shear wave elastography in monitoring response

OBJECTIVES

Radiological intervention (RI) is the preferred treatment in children with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). We studied the comparative long-term outcome of BCS children, with and without RI and utility of liver and splenic stiffness measurement (LSM, SSM) by 2-dimensional shear wave elastography (2D-SWE) in assessing response.

METHODS

Sixty children (40 boys, median age 10.5 [6.5-15.25] years) with BCS (29 newly diagnosed, 31 follow-up) were evaluated. LSM and SSM by 2D-SWE and vascular patency were monitored pre- and postprocedure (≥ 6 months postprocedure) in those undergoing RI. Medical therapy without anticoagulation and monitoring was done in subjects without RI. The RI and no-RI groups were compared.

RESULTS

Ascites (54,90%), hepatomegaly (56,93%) and prominent abdominal-veins (42,70%), were the commonest features. The majority (46,78%) had isolated hepatic vein block. 44 (73%) cases underwent RI, while 16 (27%) were managed conservatively. Both groups were similar at baseline. Post-RI subjects showed significant improvement in clinical findings, liver functions and portal hypertension. LSM [33 (32-34.5) to 19.2 (18-20.67) kPa] and SSM [54.5 (52.3-57.6) to 28.9 (27.6-30.25) kPa] showed a significant decline from baseline value over a follow-up of 12 (6-13) months. Gradual reduction occurred in the LSM and SSM over 1-5 years, with near-normal LSM [10.2 (9.2-11.5) kPa] and SSM [22.3 (20.5-24.3) kPa] values in patients (n-16) with > 5 years follow-up. Patients without RI showed worsening in LSM and SSM. Hepatopulmonary syndrome and hepatocellular carcinoma developed in 4 (8%) and 1 (1.7%) cases respectively.

CONCLUSION

RI leads to clinical recovery and reduction with near normalization of LSM and SSM over long-term follow-up in children with BCS. 2D-SWE is a promising tool to monitor outcomes.

Metallic Stents for Hepatic Venous Outflow Obstruction After Living-Donor Liver Transplantation and their Therapeutic Effects

BACKGROUND

Living-donor liver transplantation (LDLT) is established as a standard therapy for end-stage liver disease; however, vessel reconstruction is more demanding due to the short length and small size of the available structures compared with deceased-donor whole liver transplantation. Interventional radiology (IR) has become the first-line treatment for vascular complications after LDLT. Hepatic venous outflow obstruction (HVOO) is a life-threatening complication after LDLT. The aim of this study of 592 adult-to-adult LDLT cases was to investigate the safety and efficacy of stent implantation for HVOO after LDLT.

METHODS

Records of patients who developed HVOO requiring any treatment were collected with special reference to the metallic stent implantation. There were 232 left-side grafts and 360 right-side grafts. Sixteen cases developed HVOO after LDLT with an incidence rate of 2.7%, 5 with a left liver graft (2%), and 11 with a right-side graft (3%). The IR was attempted for 14 cases; among those, 8 cases were treated by stent implantation.

RESULTS

The technical success rate of the initial stent implantation was 100%. The pressure gradient at the stenotic site significantly improved from 12.2 (range, 10.9-20.4 cm H2O) to 3.9 cm H2O (range, 1.4-8.2 cm H2O; P = .03). The volume of the congested graft liver decreased significantly from 1448 (range, 788-2170 mL) to 1265 mL (range, 748-1665 mL; P = .01), and the serum albumin level improved significantly from 3.3 (range, 1.7-3.7 g/dL) to 3.7 g/dL (range, 2.9-4.1 g/dL; P = .02). No procedure-related complication was noted, and the long-term stent patency was 100%.

CONCLUSION

Metallic stent implantation for stenotic venous anastomosis after LDLT is a safe and effective treatment.

Hepatic venous outflow obstruction after adult living donor liver transplantation

Hepatic venous outflow obstruction (HVOO) is a rare but critical vascular complication after adult living donor liver transplantation. We categorized HVOOs according to their morphology (anastomotic stenosis, kinking, and intrahepatic stenosis) and onset (early-onset < 3 mo vs. late-onset ≥ 3 mo). Overall, 16/324 (4.9%) patients developed HVOO between 2000 and 2020. Fifteen patients underwent interventional radiology. Of the 16 hepatic venous anastomoses within these 15 patients, 12 were anastomotic stenosis, 2 were kinking, and 2 were intrahepatic stenoses. All of the kinking and intrahepatic stenoses required stent placement, but most of the anastomotic stenoses (11/12, 92%) were successfully managed with balloon angioplasty, which avoided stent placement. Graft survival tended to be worse for patients with late-onset HVOO than early-onset HVOO (40% vs. 69.3% at 5 y, p = 0.162) despite successful interventional radiology. In conclusion, repeat balloon angioplasty can be considered for simple anastomotic stenosis, but stent placement is recommended for kinking or intrahepatic stenosis. Close follow-up is recommended in patients with late-onset HVOO even after successful treatment.

Budd-Chiari syndrome in Behçet's disease

A 36-year-old man was admitted to the emergency department due to a 30-day history of abdominal distention and epigastralgia. He had described a non-intentional 10kg weight loss, dry cough, and fever 6 months before his admission. He had a history of tobacco and cocaine abuse and reported recurrent oral and genital ulcers. Physical examination showed an extensive area of venous collateral circulation on the abdominal wall, hepatomegaly, signs of a moderate ascites, and lower limb edema. Liver and renal function tests were normal. The ascitic fluid analysis did not show an inflammatory or infectious pattern. Upper flexible endoscopy revealed esophageal fine-caliber varices and colonoscopy showed an isolated terminal ileal ulcer. Abdominal imaging revealed hepatomegaly, voluminous ascites, and thrombosis of hepatic veins, inferior and superior vena cava (Figure 1). Infections and coagulation or lymphoproliferative disorders were excluded. Thereafter, the diagnosis of Budd-Chiari Syndrome in Behçet disease was established and immunosuppression treatment was started with good initial clinical evolution.

Quantitative liver magnetic resonance imaging: correlation between conventional magnetic resonance imaging, laboratory values, and prognostic indices in Budd-Chiari syndrome

PURPOSE

In Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS), unevenly distributed parenchymal changes and perfusion abnormalities occur due to hepatic venous outflow obstruction. This study aimed to evaluate the changes in the liver parenchyma in BCS using the quantitative magnetic resonance (MR) techniques of MR elastography, T1 and T2 mapping, and diffusion imaging and correlate the quantitative MR parameters through biochemical results and prognostic indices.

METHODS

Fourteen patients with BCS (seven men and seven women) were examined retrospectively. Liver stiffness (kPa), T1 relaxation times (ms) were achieved using the modified Look-Locker inversion recovery (MOLLI) 3(2)3(2)5 sequence and B1-corrected variable flip angle methods, T2 relaxation times (ms), and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values (mm2/s) were measured using regions of interest placed in the same region in all quantitative methods. Measurements were repeated at the precontrast and postcontrast hepatobiliary phases. The reduction rate (RR; %) and adjusted postcontrast T1 (%) were calculated. The values obtained from different liver parenchyma areas (whole liver, caudate lobe, pathological T2 hyperintense tissue, and relatively preserved normal-appearing tissue) were compared using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to investigate the correlation between quantitative MR parameters and biochemical parameters/ prognostic scores (Child-Pugh score, Clichy score, and Rotterdam index).

RESULTS

The parenchymal stiffness and precontrast T1 values of the caudate lobe were significantly lower than those of the remainder of the parenchyma, whereas the adjusted postcontrast T1 percentages (MOLLI) were significantly higher (P ≤ 0.027). The parenchymal stiffness value, T1 and T2 values, percentages of RR (MOLLI), and adjusted postcontrast T1 values for the pathological tissue and relatively normal tissue were significantly different (P < 0.028). No significant difference was found in terms of ADC values between any of the distinct regions of the liver. A strong correlation was detected between the Child-Pugh score, Clichy score, and precontrast T1 values obtained through the MOLLI sequence (r = 0.867, P = 0.012, r = 0.821, P = 0.023, respectively). No correlation was found between the whole liver stiffness values and the laboratory parameters, fibrosis markers, prognostic indices, or MR parameters. A significant correlation was identified between creatinine levels and several T1 parameters and the T2 relaxation time (r ≥ 0.661, P ≤ 0.052).

CONCLUSION

Tissue stiffness and T1 relaxation values are high in the areas identified as fibrosis compared with those in the relatively preserved parenchyma. The T1 relaxation time can offer quantitative information for assessing segmental functional changes and prognosis in BCS.ion for assessing segmental functional changes and prognosis in BCS.

Budd-Chiari Syndrome during Long-term Follow-up after Allogeneic Umbilical Cord Blood Transplantation

A series of abdominal computed tomography scans of an asymptomatic 40-year-old woman with a history of umbilical cord blood transplantation (CBT) for leukemia at 19 years old revealed the long-term gradual development of a right hepatic vein thrombus and stenosis of the inferior vena cava, leading to a diagnosis of Budd-Chiari syndrome. The Budd-Chiari syndrome in this case might have been influenced by the patient's history of multiple liver abscesses after CBT and associated thrombus formation, in addition to the hormone replacement therapy with estradiol and dydrogesterone she was taking. This case provides insight into the development of Budd-Chiari syndrome.

Exceptional association of Budd-Chiari syndrome with pheochromocytoma

We are reporting a case revealed by an abdomino-thoracic painful syndrome associated with multi-organ failure. A 61-year-old hypertensive woman was hospitalized for the management of hypertensive emergency associating acute coronary syndrome and abdominal pain. A thoraco-abdomino-pelvic CT-scan showed a right adrenal mass associated with hepatic vein thrombosis. After medical preparation, an adrenalectomy was performed by way of open surgery; the study of the surgical specimen found a pheochromocytoma score PASS 4. The follow-up was marked by the normalization of blood pressure and biological abnormalities.

Evaluation of dangerous collateral vessels and thrombus in Budd-Chiari syndrome patients with inferior vena cava obstruction

PURPOSE

To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of preoperative imaging in defining inferior vena cava (IVC) obstruction characteristics, in identifying the presence of a thrombus and dangerous venous collateral. The other goal is to explore the clinical implication of these data in the designing the treatment strategy in Budd-Chiari patients.

METHODS

This study included 112 patients with IVC obstruction who underwent endovascular treatment between July 2009 and June 2019. Two radiologists independently assessed MSCT and/or MRI imaging data with a 5-point scale to evaluate the diagnostic accuracies relating to obstructive characteristics, dangerous collateral vessels, and thrombus within IVC.

RESULTS

The diagnostic sensitivities for obstructive characteristics, as determined by the two independent assessors, ranged from 81.25 to 100%. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) for judging thrombus ranged from 0.87 to 0.975 for the two assessors. Inter-assessor agreement was substantial or excellent with regards to diagnostic accuracy (κ = 0.745-0.927). Twelve cases involving dangerous collateral vessels were identified in the MSCT group of 82 patients (κ = 1); six were identified by digital subtraction venography (DSV) imaging. Eight cases involving dangerous collateral vessels were reported in the MRI group of 32 patients (κ = 1); three were identified by DSV imaging.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative MSCT and MRI can accurately reveal the obstructive characteristics and risk factors of patients with IVC obstruction and can therefore be used to guide interventional planning so as to minimize complications.

Evaluating the Short-Term Clinical Efficacy of Magnetic Resonance Elastography in Patients with Budd-Chiari Syndrome

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES

To investigate the clinical relevance of liver stiffness (LS) in evaluating liver function properties in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) with different severities and LS variation before and after endovascular intervention.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between December 2016 and March 2019, patients with a diagnosis of BCS were considered for enrollment consecutively in our study. Liver function of these patients was classified according to Child-Pugh grading standard before treatment. Liver function parameters were recorded, including albumin, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, prothrombin time, and total bilirubin. LS was measured with MR elastography (MRE) before and after treatment. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to measure the correlation between LS and liver function-related parameters. Univariate analysis of variance test was used to compare LS and clinical quantitative variables of patients in three different Child-Pugh categories. Paired t test with a significant threshold of p = 0.05 was used to compare LS and pressure gradient of these patients before and after treatment. Correlation analysis between changes in LS and that in pressure gradient was performed by linear regression.

RESULTS

A total of 43 patients (23 males and 20 females) were finally enrolled in this study. The mean LS in the three groups was 5.67 ± 1.15 kPa (Child-Pugh A), 6.31 ± 1.13 kPa (Child-Pugh B), and 8.27 ± 2.22 kPa (Child-Pugh C), respectively. LS showed significant difference for patients with different Child-Pugh grades (F = 9.536, p < 0.001). Prothrombin time and total bilirubin were positively correlated with LS (p < 0.05). After treatment, mean LS in three groups was 4.83 ± 1.06 kPa, 5.12 ± 0.93, and 7.37 ± 1.96, respectively. LS decreased significantly in all three Child-Pugh grades (p < 0.001 from Child-Pugh A, p < 0.001 from Child-Pugh B, p = 0.009 from Child-Pugh C). The mean pressure gradient before intervention was 17.6 ± 4.9 mm Hg, and 8.7 ± 7.2 mm Hg after the treatment (p < 0.001). The changes in LS were correlated to that in pressure gradients (r = 0.439; r² = 0.193; p = 0.015).

CONCLUSION

MR elastography for LS measurement has been demonstrated to act as an effective tool to evaluate liver function, and to monitor the BCS patients in follow-up treatments.

Hepatic Venous Outflow Obstruction After Living-Donor Liver Transplant: Single Center Experience

OBJECTIVES

In this study, we share our approach for care of patients with hepatic venous outlet obstruction after living-donor liver transplant.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrospectively examined the demographic, clinical, and radiologic data of 35 patients who developed hepatic venous outlet obstruction after living-donor liver transplant. Patients were subgrouped on the basis of onset (8 patients with early onset [< 30 days posttransplant] and 27 patients with late onset [≥ 30 days posttransplant]) and postoperative survival (24 survivors, 11 nonsurvivors).

RESULTS

Patients ranged in age from 1 to 61 years (24 adults and 11 children). All adult patients had undergone right lobe living-donor liver transplant. In the pediatric group, 8 had undergone left lateral segment and 3 had undergone left lobe living-donor liver transplant. Nineteen adult patients and all 11 pediatric patients underwent hepatic venous reconstruction, with all procedures based on common large-opening drainage models using various vascular graft materials. Development of hepatic venous outlet obstruction occurred at mean posttransplant day 233 ± 298.5 in the adult patients and mean posttransplant day 139 ± 97.8 in the pediatric patients. After development of obstruction, the patients underwent 1-6 sessions (1.5 ± 1.1 sessions) of balloon angioplasty. After the first balloon angioplasty procedure, 25% of the adults and 36.3% of the pediatric patients developed recurrence. The early-onset and late-onset subgroups showed statistically significant differences in serum albumin (P = .01), underlying causes (P < .001), time from transplant to obstruction (P = .02), and time from transplant to last visit (P = .02). The survivor and nonsurvivor subgroups showed statistically significant differences in total bilirubin (P = .03) and time from transplant to last visit (P = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

Common large-opening reconstruction minimizes hepatic venous outlet obstruction development after living-donor liver transplant. Balloon angioplasty and/or stenting is almost always the first option in the care of this complication.

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt for Budd-Chiari syndrome: A comprehensive review

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a relatively rare clinical condition with a wide range of symptomatology, caused by the obstruction of the hepatic venous outflow. If left untreated, it has got an high mortality rate. Its management is based on a step-wise approach, depending on the clinical presentation, and includes different treatment from anticoagulation therapy up to Interventional Radiology techniques, such as transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). TIPS is today considered a safe and highly effective treatment and should be recommended for BCS patients, including those awaiting orthotopic liver transplantation. In this review the pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment options of BCS are presented, with a special focus on published data regarding the techniques and outcomes of TIPS for the treatment of BCS. Moreover, unresolved issues and future research will be discussed.

Ultrasound liver elastography beyond liver fibrosis assessment

Several guidelines have indicated that liver stiffness (LS) assessed by means of shear wave elastography (SWE) can safely replace liver biopsy in several clinical scenarios, particularly in patients with chronic viral hepatitis. However, an increase of LS may be due to some other clinical conditions not related to fibrosis, such as liver inflammation, acute hepatitis, obstructive cholestasis, liver congestion, infiltrative liver diseases. This review analyzes the role that SWE can play in cases of liver congestion due to right-sided heart failure, congenital heart diseases or valvular diseases. In patients with heart failure LS seems directly influenced by central venous pressure and can be used as a prognostic marker to predict cardiac events. The potential role of LS in evaluating liver disease beyond the stage of liver fibrosis has been investigated also in the hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) and in the Budd-Chiari syndrome. In the hepatic SOS, an increase of LS is observed some days before the clinical manifestations; therefore, it could allow an early diagnosis to timely start an effective treatment. Moreover, it has been reported that patients that were successfully treated showed a LS decrease, that reached pre-transplantation value within two to four weeks. It has been reported that, in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome, LS values can be used to monitor short and long-term outcome after angioplasty.

Venous thrombosis and segmental hypoperfusion in amebic liver abscess: MDCT demonstration and its implications

PURPOSE

To report venous thrombosis and associated perfusion defect in amebic liver abscess (ALA) using MDCT.

METHOD

MDCT images of 62 patients with ALA were reviewed for venous thrombosis and associated perfusion abnormalities.

RESULT

The study found 43 (69%) patients with venous thrombosis: portal vein thrombosis (PVT) occurred in 39, hepatic vein thrombosis (HVT) in 37 and inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombosis in 4. Combined PVT and HVT occurred in 33 (77%) patients. The portal vein thrombi remained localized in subsegmental branches in 25 patients and extended to segmental branches in 14. The hepatic vein thrombi were confined to peripheral branches in 18 patients; they progressed to the main trunk in 19 and to the IVC in 4. A wedge-shaped hypoattenuating zone suggesting ischemia was identified in 33 (77%) patients in portal phase: 31 had combined PVT and HVT, 2 had HVT alone, but none had PVT alone. It occurred significantly more often with combined PVT and HVT than HVT alone (p = 0.05). Arterial phase enhancement occurred in 2 of 13 patients with multiphasic CT. All patients were symptomatic despite medical therapy and therefore required percutaneous drainage. About half of the patients were identified with ruptured abscesses. Segmental atrophy was observed in seven of nine patients who underwent follow-up CT.

CONCLUSION

Combined PVT and HVT commonly occur with ALA and often manifests as segmental hypoperfusion in portal venous phase, indicating ischemia. The detection of such events by CT may be indicative of severe disease that requires aggressive management involving percutaneous drainage.

Treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma with hepatic vein tumor thrombosis protruding into the inferior vena cava by conversion surgery following chemotherapy with regorafenib: a case report

Regorafenib is an oral multikinase inhibitor affecting angiogenesis, oncogenesis, metastasis, and tumor immunity. As a systemic treatment, it has been shown to provide survival benefits in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients progressing on sorafenib treatment. We report herein a case of HCC with hepatic vein tumor thrombosis protruding into the inferior vena cava (IVC-HVTT) which was successfully treated by surgery following second-line chemotherapy with regorafenib. A 79-year-old man with chronic hepatitis was diagnosed with HCC. Computed tomography revealed a solitary tumor in segments 7 and 8 and an IVC-HVTT from the right hepatic vein. Since IVC-HVTT removal is a difficult procedure, the tumor was diagnosed as unresectable, and administration of sorafenib was started. Five weeks later, the lesion had increased in size by 15.3%; subsequently, regorafenib was given as second-line therapy for 12 months. After shrinkage of the IVC-HVTT, the patient was referred to our hospital for surgery. One month after the cessation of regorafenib, an extended resection of segment 8 and total removal of the IVC-HVTT was successfully performed without using total hepatic vascular exclusion. There were no serious postoperative complications. Additionally, there has been no recurrence for about 2 years since the initial therapy.

Budd-Chiari primitif: défi diagnostique et thérapeutique

Le syndrome de Budd-Chiari primitif est une hépatopathie caractérisée par une obstruction du flux veineux hépatique dans l´espace vasculaire situé entre les veinules hépatiques et la jonction entre la veine cave inférieure et l´oreillette droite excluant donc les causes d´amont (syndrome d´obstruction sinusoïdale) et d´aval (causes cardiaques). Cette obstruction veineuse endoluminale est due principalement à une thrombose ou à sa séquelle fibreuse. C´est une affection rare, qui prédomine chez l´adulte jeune. Les manifestations cliniques sont extrêmement variables, elle peut être asymptomatique, aiguë, subaiguë ou chronique. Le diagnostic repose essentiellement sur l´échographie doppler et/ou l´imagerie par résonance magnétique. Plusieurs étiologies ont été identifiées, en particulier, le syndrome myéloproliferatif, le syndrome des antiphospholipides, l´hémoglobinurie paroxystique nocturne, les affections thrombogènes héréditaires... Le traitement est étiologique et symptomatique, les recommandations thérapeutiques sont organisées en algorithme. Le pronostic est nettement amélioré grâce aux avancées thérapeutiques récentes.

Utility of hepatic vein waveform and transient elastography in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome who require angioplasty: Two case reports

RATIONALE

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS), which causes congestive hepatopathy and aggravates cirrhosis, is typically treated by interventional angioplasty to ameliorate blood flow. X-ray venography is useful for the evaluation of inferior vena cava (IVC) stenosis and determination of treatment timing, but it is invasive and thus unsuitable for repeated examinations. The development of a simple method for the prediction of IVC stenosis would reduce the burden on patients with BCS.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We report here our experience of 2 patients with BCS who underwent percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA). The first patient was a 39-year-old male who underwent PTA to expand his stenotic IVC. The second patient was a 19-year-old male who underwent PTA 3 times due to restenosis of his IVC.

DIAGNOSES

Both patients were diagnosed with BCS with severe obstruction of the IVC.

INTERVENTIONS

We evaluated the hepatic vein (HV) waveform by Doppler ultrasonography and measured liver stiffness (LS) using transient elastography (TE) before and after PTA.

OUTCOMES

In case 1, the phasic oscillation of the HV waveform recovered and the LS value decreased after PTA. Both improvements were maintained for ∼3 years, reflecting the long-term patency of the IVC. In case 2, the HV waveform and the LS value improved temporarily after PTA, but then deteriorated gradually. Monitoring of the HV waveform and LS value allowed retreatment prior to total occlusion of the IVC and abrogated the risk of intravascular needle puncture.

LESSONS

Monitoring of the HV waveform and the LS value enables safe management of patients with BCS who may require PTA.

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

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

Budd-Chiari syndrome - various etiologies and imagistic findings. A pictorial review

Budd Chiari syndrome defines an obstruction of the hepatic venous outflow. Primary causes include pro-coagulant states resulting in venous thrombosis, while secondary Budd Chiari syndrome appears in conditions associated with extrinsic compression of the hepatic veins or tumor invasion. Clinical presentation is greatly varied, from incidentally discovered asymptomatic thrombosis to fulminant liver failure due to hepatic congestion. Abdominal ultrasonography is the key diagnostic tool of Budd Chiari syndrome. This pictorial essay aims to show the ultrasonographic aspect of Budd-Chiari syndrome associated with other medical conditions (abdominal malignancy, hematologic disorders and abdominal surgery).

Intravenous Lymphatic Cyst in Inferior Vena Cava-A Rare Cause of Budd-Chiari Syndrome

A case with an extremely rare intravenous cystic lesion in the suprahepatic inferior vena cava was reported, which originated from the lymphatic system and had induced Budd-Chiari syndrome. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a benign cystic lesion originating from the wall of a suprahepatic inferior vena cava which results in Budd-Chiari syndrome.

Budd-Chiari syndrome has different presentations and disease severity during adolescence

There are limited data on clinical profile of adolescent patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). We studied clinical, radiological, thrombophilia profile and treatment outcomes in adolescent patients with BCS.

METHODS

Forty-three consecutive patients of BCS with onset of symptoms during adolescence (10-19 years) were enrolled in the study. 129 randomly selected adult patients with BCS and 36 children with BCS formed the two control groups. The clinical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, thrombophilic disorders, radiological features and treatment outcomes of adolescents were compared to adults and children.

RESULTS

In adolescents, ascites (25/43 vs. 110/129, p = 0.0004) and thrombophilic disorders (16/43 vs. 93/129 p < 0.0001) were less frequent than adults. More adolescents (14/43) presented with hepatomegaly alone without ascites than adults (9/129, p < 0.001) or children (1/36, p = 0.005). Adolescents had lower Clichy scores [3.75 (1.2)] than adults [4.72 (1.3), p < 0.0001) or children [4.43 (1.7), p = 0.041]. JAK-2 V617F mutation was the most common thrombophilic disorder in adolescents (5/43) and more common than children (0/36, p = 0.043). Response to therapy was better in adolescents (74.4%) than children (52.8%, p = 0.038), but similar to adults (63.56%, p = 0.13).

CONCLUSION

During adolescence, patients with BCS present less commonly with ascites and may present with hepatomegaly alone. JAK-2 V617F mutation is the most common thrombophilic disorder during adolescence; though thrombophilic disorders are less common in adolescents than adults. Response to therapy is similar to adults, but better than children.

Effects of low-dose energy spectrum scanning combined with adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction on the quality of imaging in Budd-Chiari syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To assess the quality and diagnostic accuracy of monochromatic images combined with adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction (ASIR) performed via spectral computed tomography (CT) in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS).

METHODS

Sixty-two patients with BCS underwent pectral CT with upper abdominal two-phase contrast-enhanced scanning to generate a 60keV monochromatic energy level combined with ASIR (ranging from 0% -100%) during the portal venous phase (PVP) and the hepatic venous phase (HVP). One-way ANOVA was used to compare vessel-to-liver contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) for the portal vein (PV), hepatic vein (HV), and inferior vena cava (IVC). Subjective evaluations of the images in the three groups were conducted by image quality assessors and compared via Kruskal-Wallis H test.

RESULTS

The CNR values of the PV trunk, HV, IVC, liver parenchyma and pancreas were within ASIR (ranging from 0% - 100%) weight, and the difference were statistically significant (p <0.05). The highest overall image score was distributed at 50% ASIR weight value. Higher CNR values of HV, hepatic parenchyma and pancreas were obtained in the IVC type than in mixed and HV types (respective p values = 0.035, 0.019 and 0.042). Higher CNR values of the IVC were obtained in the HV type than in mixed and IVC types (p = 0.032). The CNR value of the IVC in the mixed type was less than that of the HV type (p = 0.028). The CNR values of the HV and liver parenchyma in mixed type were lower than those of the IVC type (p = 0.016 and 0.038, respectively). The CNR value of pancreas in IVC type was higher than that of the HV type (p = 0.037). The diagnostic value of CNR in patients with the IVC type was higher than that in patients with mixed and HV type, while the diagnostic value of CNR was found to be the lowest for the HV type (p = 0.043).

CONCLUSION

A monochromatic energy level of 60 keV with 50% ASIR can significantly improve image quality in cases of BCS.

Ultrasonography in Liver Vascular Disease

Vascular liver diseases include a heterogeneous group of disorders affecting the micro- and the macro-circulation of the liver. Thrombosis and obstruction of the inflow (portal vein) and/or outflow venous system (Budd-Chiari syndrome), spontaneous porto-systemic shunts, diseases affecting the sinusoids, and hepatic vascular malformations are the most important vascular liver diseases. Thrombosis of the portal venous system and of the hepatic venous system occur most commonly and are potentially life-threatening conditions, while congenital and acquired pro-thrombotic diseases are major causal factors, together with local factors triggering thrombotic events. Despite their overall low prevalence, vascular liver diseases represent the second cause of portal hypertension in the Western world. Imaging techniques are of paramount importance in the diagnostic process, as well as in the follow-up of patients affected by these conditions. In this review, we focus on the role of ultrasonography in the management of vascular liver diseases by highlighting advantages and drawbacks of this imaging technique. In addition, we provide a state of the art presentation of the possibilities offered by ultrasound in the evaluation of vascular and parenchymal features in vascular liver diseases encompassing not only the use of grayscale imaging, but also the application of Doppler ultrasound, the measurement of hemodynamic parameters and the assessment of liver stiffness.

Real-time shear wave elastography (SWE) assessment of short- and long-term treatment outcome in Budd-Chiari syndrome: A pilot study

Purpose

The first aim of this study was to analyze the relationships between liver stiffness measurement, hepatic venous pressure and liver fibrosis. The second aim was to demonstrate the utility of real-time shear wave elastography for evaluation of Budd-Chiari syndrome patients before and after balloon hepatic venous angioplasty.

Materials and methods

A total of 32 patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome slated for successful balloon angioplasty met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Shear wave elastography was used to generate dynamic liver stiffness measurement 2 days before angioplasty and 2 days, 3 months, and 6 months after angioplasty. Hepatic venous pressures were measured during balloon angioplasty. Correlations among liver stiffness, hepatic venous pressure, and fibrosis were assessed.

Result

Mean liver stiffness was 35.17 ± 10.60 kPa, 20.15 ± 5.47 kPa, 15.36 ± 4.34 kPa and 15.68 ± 5.58 kPa at baseline and 2 days, 3 months, and 6 months after angioplasty, respectively. Liver stiffness measured at 2 days and 3 months after angioplasty was significantly decreased (P < 0.001); liver stiffness measured at 6 months after angioplasty was not significantly different from that measured at 3 months after angioplasty (P = 0.636). Analysis of liver stiffness measurement and hepatic venous pressure before balloon angioplasty yielded a coefficient of correlation r = 0.701 (P < 0.001). Before and 2d after angioplasty, liver stiffness measurement did not correlated with fibrosis (r = − 0.170, P = 0.22), (r = 0.223, P = 0.220), respectively, while the LSM difference before and 2 days after angioplasty negatively correlated with stiffness severity (r = − 0.502, P = 0.003). Liver stiffness measured at 2 days and 3 months after angioplasty was significantly decreased (P < 0.001), remaining stable at 3 months, though still in the cirrhotic range.

Conclusions

The liver stiffness of Budd-Chiari syndrome patients, measured by shear wave elastography, decreased considerably after hepatic venous recanalization, and significantly correlated with hepatic venous pressure though not with degree of fibrosis. Shear wave elastography may be effective in monitoring short- and long-term treatment outcomes in Budd-Chiari syndrome.

Single-access liver floss technique with antegrade hepatic vein access and recanalization in Budd-Chiari syndrome

A 14-year-old boy presented with several months of increasing abdominal girth and fatigue. Imaging confirmed massive ascites and hepatic congestion secondary to central hepatic venous obstruction. Several large intrahepatic collateral veins were seen draining via caudate and emissary veins. After an unsuccessful attempt at retrograde recanalization utilizing intravascular ultrasound, the right hepatic vein was recanalized in an antegrade fashion by way of a prominent caudate collateral vein, and subsequently stented. We herein discuss the established treatment options for Budd-Chiari syndrome and describe our experience employing a single-access liver floss technique.

Mesoatrial Shunt for Budd-Chiari Syndrome

BACKGROUND

The long-term efficacy of mesoatrial shunt (MAS) for Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is not well studied. The purpose of our study was to investigate the long-term outcome and efficacy of MAS for BCS.

METHODS

We retrospectively evaluated 11 patients who underwent MAS for BCS from April 1986 to November 1995. Records of patients' clinical presentations, laboratorial investigation, Doppler duplex ultrasonography, radiologic image, and treatment outcomes were all retrieved and analyzed.

RESULTS

Follow-up intervals ranged from 1 year and 2 months to 30 years and 2 months (mean, 17 years and 8 months). Portal pressure decreased significantly from 35.72 ± 3.52 cm H₂O to 27.86 ± 5.83 cm H₂O post-MAS (P = 0.001). The 5-year, 10-year, and 20-year patency were 72.7%, 54.5%, 36.4%, respectively; 63.3% of patients had survived for more than 10 years and 45.5% for more than 20 years. A male has been alive with patent shunt for 28 years and 1 month.

CONCLUSIONS

The MAS with enforced rings is an effective therapeutic modality for BCS with cautious perioperative management.

Hepatocellular carcinoma presenting with Budd-Chiari syndrome, right atrial thrombus and pulmonary emboli

A 47-year-old patient presented with a two-week history of right upper quadrant pain, abdominal distention and new onset of shortness of breath. He had a history of intravenous drug abuse, no alcohol consumption and denied any known liver disease. On physical examination, he was tachypneic and had dullness in the flanks. His blood analysis at admission was as follows: hemoglobin, 12.9 g/dL; leukocyte count, 6,800/uL; platelet count, 63,000/uL; INR, 2.1; serum creatinine, 1.27 mg/dL; liver biochemistry tests were notable for marginal derangement, HBsAg was negative, anti-HCV was positive, HCV RNA was 367,498 IU/ml and alpha-fetoprotein was 992 mg/dL. Abdominal ultrasound showed a right liver lobe mass (13 cm in diameter) with inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombosis and mild peri-hepatic ascites. A 2D echocardiogram showed a presumed right atrial tumor thrombus. A multiphasic contrast-enhanced abdominal tomography (CT) confirmed a hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with IVC obstruction and extensive tumoral thrombus to the right atrium (14 cm long).

Microwave ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma associated with Budd-Chiari syndrome after transarterial chemoembolization: an analysis of ten cases

PURPOSE

To evaluate the feasibility, efficacy, and safety of microwave ablation (MWA) in the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma associated with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) after transarterial chemoembolization (TACE).

METHODS

A total of 10 patients (mean 50.0 ± 7.5 years) with 15 BCS-associated HCC lesions were retrospectively evaluated. All patients received MWA treatment for residual tumors after 1 to 3 sessions of TACE. The diagnosis of residual tumors was confirmed by at least two types of enhanced imaging. CEUS images were performed to confirm the residual lesions and guide the placement of antenna before MWA. Thermal monitoring and artificial pleural effusion or ascites were used to guarantee ablative accuracy and safety for patients with tumors adjacent to vital structures. Technical success, technique efficacy, local tumor progression, survival rate, and the incidence of complications were comprehensively analyzed.

RESULTS

Technical success and technique effectiveness were achieved in all patients. Thirteen lesions achieved complete ablation for the first time, and 2 lesions needed two sessions. Thermal monitoring was used in 2 patients, artificial pleural effusion was used in 1 patient, and artificial ascites in 2 patients. In a median follow-up of 34.5 months (range 21-52 months), no LTP was founded in all patients. Intrahepatic recurrence was found in 5 patients. 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-year survival rates were 100%, 100%, 74.1%, and 37.0%, respectively. No major or minor complications were observed.

CONCLUSION

Microwave ablation is a feasible and effective way to treat residual tumors after TACE treatment in patients with BCS-associated HCC.

Right Atrial Extension of Primary Venous Leiomyosarcoma: Pulmonary Embolism and Budd-Chiari Syndrome at Presentation

Venous leiomyosarcomas are rare and arise predominantly in the inferior vena cava (IVC). The clinical findings are nonspecific and may precede the diagnosis by several years. IVC leiomyosarcoma is predominantly seen in women. Intracavitary extension of vascular tumors tends to result from embolization or propagation along great veins, and this is a serious risk factor for pulmonary embolism and sudden death when it reaches the right heart. Modern imaging modalities using computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, individually or in combination with cavography, ultrasound, and echocardiography, allow an early and accurate preoperative diagnosis, resulting in a higher rate of surgical resection and improved survival. The authors present a 72-year-old woman who presented with pulmonary embolism and Budd-Chiari syndrome. Pathological examination revealed a leiomyosarcoma. The tumor, involving the IVC, was diagnosed with imaging techniques that showed intracardiac extension of a primary venous leiomyosarcoma. The literature discussing leiomyosarcoma of the IVC is briefly reviewed.

Percutaneous recanalization for combined-type Budd-Chiari syndrome: strategy and long-term outcome

PURPOSE

To investigate the feasibility, strategy, and long-term outcome of percutaneous recanalization for combined-type Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS).

METHODS

From December 2007 to August 2014, consecutive symptomatic combined-type BCS patients were treated by percutaneous recanalization in our centers. Inferior vena cava (IVC) recanalization was the first-stage treatment for all patients. Recanalization of one hepatic vein (HV) was the second-stage treatment for the selected patients. If the patient had the compensatory and patent accessory HV (AHV), we observed this patient for 7 days after IVC recanalization. If the symptoms of portal hypertension improved, HV recanalization was not needed. Otherwise, HV recanalization was performed. If the patient had no patent AHV, HV recanalization was performed 3 days after IVC recanalization. Data on technical success, clinical success, and follow-up were analyzed, respectively.

RESULTS

Sixty-two symptomatic combined-type BCS patients were enrolled. Technical success of percutaneous recanalization was achieved in 60 patients. Among them, 52 patients had the patent AHV and underwent single IVC recanalization, and 8 patients had no patent AHV and underwent combined IVC and HV recanalization. Clinical success was achieved in all of the 60 patients. Three patients died during the follow-up. The cumulative 1-, 2-, and 4-year survival rates were 98.3%, 96.5%, and 92.7%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Percutaneous recanalization is suitable for most combined-type BCS patients. Treatment strategy can be made according to the situation of AHV. If the patient has the patent AHV, single IVC recanalization is enough. Otherwise, combined IVC and HV recanalization should be performed.

Hybrid Treatment for Budd-Chiari Syndrome: A Case Report by 11-Year Follow-up

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare hepatic disease caused by occlusion of the hepatic venous outflow at any level from the small hepatic veins to the atriocava junction. BCS could have serious consequences if not treated promptly. The appropriate therapeutic strategy can be offered to change the natural course of the disease. The present case reports a young man with BCS who successfully received the hybrid treatment combined with endovascular intervention and mesocaval shunt by step. The 11-year follow-up showed that the patient was free of clinical symptoms, and computed tomography and ultrasonography confirmed the patency of the stent and shunt. Although BCS therapy methods are well established, the patient often needs to be treated repeatedly because of the high risk of recurrence. Step therapeutic strategy to alleviate portal and inferior vena cava hypertension of BCS patients are respected. The combination of endovascular intervention and mesocaval shunt was effective in our patient, and both stent and shunt have satisfactory long-term patency.

Endovascular Management of Budd-Chiari Syndrome with Inferior Vena Cava Thrombosis: A 14-Year Single-Center Retrospective Report of 55 Patients

PURPOSE

To evaluate safety and efficacy of balloon dilation and stent placement combined with thrombus aspiration and thrombolysis to treat patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) with inferior vena cava (IVC) thrombosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Charts from 55 consecutive patients with primary BCS and IVC thrombosis treated between April 2000 and August 2014 were retrospectively analyzed. Transcatheter aspiration and percutaneous recanalization were attempted in all patients, and stents were placed if balloon dilation was successful. Catheter-directed thrombolysis was performed when evident clot burden was present after recanalization.

RESULTS

Technically successful IVC recanalization was achieved in 53 of 55 patients (96.4%). Technical failures in 2 patients were due to long segment of IVC obstruction. A stent was placed in 47 of 53 patients (88.7%). Thrombus was successfully aspirated in 23 patients, and thrombolytic treatment was administered to 13 patients. Median follow-up was 58 months (range, 8-180 mo). No symptomatic pulmonary embolism occurred. Reocclusion occurred in 8 patients, and 6 of these patients (75%) underwent repeat recanalization by balloon dilation with or without stents. Cumulative 1-, 5-, and 10-year primary patency rates were 94%, 89%, and 66%. Alanine transaminase and alkaline phosphatase levels were independent risk factors for reocclusion. Cumulative 1-, 5-, and 10-year survival rates were 90%, 86%, and 86%. Child-Pugh score and reocclusion were independent predictors of survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous vena caval balloon dilation and stent placement with thrombus aspiration and thrombolytic therapy is safe and effective for treatment of patients with BCS and IVC thrombosis.

Budd-Chiari syndrome: an update on imaging features

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare cause of portal hypertension and liver failure. This condition is characterized by an impaired hepatic venous drainage. The diagnosis of BCS is based on imaging, which helps initiate treatment. Imaging findings can be categorized into direct and indirect signs. Direct signs are the hallmarks of BCS and consist of visualization of obstructive lesions of the hepatic veins or the upper portion of the inferior vena cava. Indirect signs, which are secondary to venous obstruction, correspond to intra- and extrahepatic collateral circulation, perfusion abnormalities, dysmorphy and signs of portal hypertension.

Ultrasonographic Visualization of Accessory Hepatic Veins and Their Lesions in Budd-Chiari Syndrome

The aim of this study was to investigate the ultrasonographic features of accessory hepatic veins (AHVs) and their lesions in Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). Three hundred patients with BCS were examined by ultrasonography with multifrequency (3-6 MHz) convex transducers. Sonography was performed 1 to 2 wk before digital subtraction angiography and computed tomography angiography or magnetic resonance imaging. Using sonograms, we evaluated the number, course, diameter, orifice, lesions and hemodynamics of patent and obstructed AHVs. Ultrasonography was superior to digital subtraction angiography, computed tomography angiography and magnetic resonance imaging in revealing AHV lesions and hemodynamics. Dilated AHVs were detected in 227 patients. There were 239 caudate lobe veins in 167 patients and 168 inferior right hepatic veins in 151 patients. Both caudate lobe veins and inferior right hepatic veins were found in 91 of the 227 patients. The inlets to AHVs were located mainly on the right lateral or right anterior wall of the inferior vena cava, and the remnant, on the left lateral wall. AHV lesions comprised mainly septal obstruction and segmental stenosis. The hemodynamics of AHVs varied with the condition of inferior vena cava and AHVs. Ultrasonic examination can reveal AHVs and their lesions in patients with BCS and is helpful in choosing and planning therapeutic approaches.

[Budd-Chiari syndrome: a case report and review of the literature]

We report the history of a 20-year-old woman admitted for thrombosis of the sus-hepatic veins and of the inferior vena cava (IVC) with extension of the thrombus into the right atrium. The etiological research was negative and a diagnosis of idiopathic Budd-Chiari syndrome was retained. In view of the absence of vein repermeabilisation under adequate anticoagulant therapy, a venous thrombectomiy was performed under cardiopulmonary bypass, which improved the hepatic venous drainage. Budd-Chiari syndrome is a very serious disorder. Its treatment implies a step by step procedure. An effective anticoagulation must first be established. The complications of portal hypertension then require attention. For a symptomatic patient, one should assess the possibility of restoring the venous permeability, improving the hepatic drainage and decompressing the liver by radiological interventional or surgical procedures. Finally, an hepatic transplantation should be considered in case of treatment ineffectiveness, of fulminant hepatic failure, or of an evolution towards cirrhosis.

Budd-Chiari syndrome as an initial presentation of hepatocellular carcinoma: a case report

We report the case of a 84-year-old admitted with symptoms of congestive heart failure. Ultrasonography revealed a hyperechoic nodule in the left lobe of the liver, with a peripheral hypoechoic rim, multiple irregular hypoechoic nodules in both hepatic lobes, portal vein, inferior vena cava, and right atrium thrombosis. On ultrasonographic and alpha-fetoprotein criteria the case was interpreted as hepatocellular carcinoma with Budd-Chiari syndrome. The particularity of the case is the initial presentation of the hepatocellular carcinoma as Budd-Chiari syndrome. The inferior vena cava and right atrium thrombosis, as a cause of secondary Budd-Chiari syndrome in a patient with hepatocellular carcinoma, has been rarely reported.