Obliteration of a Portosystemic Shunt by Hybrid Interventional Radiology Using a Transmesenteric Approach Under Minilaparotomy After Liver Transplantation: A Case Report

Abstract

Hepatic encephalopathy that occurs long after liver transplantation (LT) is an uncommon condition. Here, we describe the successful case of a 65-year-old patient who underwent interventional radiology (IVR) using a transmesenteric approach under minilaparotomy for hepatic encephalopathy because of a portosystemic shunt 11 years after ABO-incompatible living donor LT with splenectomy. Enhanced computed tomography confirmed a huge portosystemic shunt and left gastric vein (LGV)-esophageal-azygos vein, which was not treated during LT. Liver stiffness measurements based on transient elastography did not show severe fibrosis in the liver graft. Since the hyperammonemia could not be managed with conventional medical treatment, balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration (BRTO) was indicated. However, it was difficult to perform because the drainage vein could not be approached from the inferior vena cava (IVC). Surgical shunt ligation was also difficult because of the history of multiple laparotomies. Although intraperitoneal adhesion was severe, the portosystemic shunt was successfully embolized with metallic coils and a plug by IVR using a transmesenteric approach under minilaparotomy. No complications occurred during the operation. His symptoms improved after the operation. The ammonia level and portal flow by ultrasound also improved. He was discharged 14 days after surgery without any complications.