Portosystemic Pressure Gradient Research Articles

Assessing the Severity of Portal Hypertension: Is Liver or Spleen Stiffness Measurement an Alternative to the Gold Standard, Hepatic Vein or Porto-Systemic Pressure Gradient?

Introduction: Liver stiffness measurement (LSM) and spleen stiffness measurement (SSM) are increased in patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension (PH). However, increased SSM values are associated with presence of esophageal varices. Currently, the gold standard for risk stratification in patients with compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD) is by measurement of portal pressure through assessment of hepatic vein or porto-systemic pressure gradient (HVPG and PSPG). However, these procedures are invasive, and either LSM or SSM may be a non-invasive alternative.
 Aim: We aimed to investigate the relationship between LSM or SSM and HVPG/PSPG and examined the diagnostic accuracy for identification of clinically significant PH (≥10 mm Hg) or severe PH (≥12 mm Hg).
 Methods: A retrospective study (IRB Protocol #19230) allowed us to identify patients who had who undergone portal pressure measurements (HVPG or PSPG). A total of 36 patients also had SSM values. Of these, 29 patients carried a hepatic cause of PH, while the remaining had pre-hepatic (n=4) and post-hepatic (n=3) etiology.
 Results: The median age was 58 years (range: 25-71) with 52% male and 83% with cirrhosis. The median LSM and SSM were 35.7 kPa (range:7.4-75.0, normal ≤7.0 kPa) and 43.8 kPa (range: 20.7-100, normal ≤ 21.0 kPa). Both LSM (r = 0.42, P-value = 0.02) and SSM (r = 0.45, P-value: 0.01) correlated significantly with HVPG/PSPG. The diagnostic accuracy for both LSM and SSM for clinically significant PH was good for LSM (AUROC 0.76, 95% CI:0.58-0.94) and excellent for SSM (AUROC: 0.81, 95% CI:0.65-0.98). The diagnostic accuracy of LSM and SSM was lower for severe PH [AUROC 0.71 (P-value = 0.06) and 0.67 (P-value = 0.1) for LSM and SSM, respectively].
 Conclusion: Both LSM and SSM correlate with portal pressure measurements and provide diagnostic accuracy to identify patients with clinically significant, but not severe, PH.

The safety and efficacy of endoscopic ultrasound-guided portal pressure gradient measurement with concomitant endoscopic ultrasound-guided liver biopsy: a systematic review

IntroductionPortal hypertension (PH) is a complication of advanced liver disease. Traditionally, PH has been quantified using hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) through an indirect transjugular approach requiring ionizing radiation exposure. Endoscopic ultrasound-guided porto-systemic pressure gradient (EUS-PPG) measurement is an emerging alternative, minimally invasive technique that provides direct portal pressure measurement. The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate the safety and efficacy of EUS-PPG measurement and concomitant EUS-guided liver biopsy (EUS-LB) in patients with chronic liver disease.MethodsThe preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses method was used. A PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and CINAHL search for terms “endoscopic ultrasound,” “EUS,” and “portal pressure gradient” was used to identify qualifying studies. Eligible studies included those which were published before 2022, reporting outcomes of EUS-PPG measurement, simultaneous EUS-LB if applicable, and adverse events rate. Risk of bias was assessed by Egger’s test. Results were synthesized using I2 to test heterogeneity.ResultsFour published studies including 147 patients met inclusion criteria, with mean age 59.6 years, 59% male. Indications for EUS-PPG measurement were history of chronic liver disease or suspected cirrhosis, viral hepatitis, alcohol associated liver disease, hepatic sinusoidal obstruction or Budd Chiari syndrome. The pooled technical success rate of EUS-PPG measurements was 98.61% with 95% confidence interval of 95.20% - 99.82%. A 25-gauge needle was used in 92% (135/147) of patients. EUS-PPG measurement was performed through a transgastric approach in all 147 (100%) patients using a compact manometer with pressure transducer and non-compressible tubing. The mean PPG was 10.07 (range 6.44 – 13.70) mmHg. Ninety-five patients underwent simultaneous EUS-LB using 19G needle with wet suction technique. Technical success rate of EUS-LB was 100% and specimen was adequate in 99% (94/95) patients to establish histological diagnosis. There were no major life-threatening complications of the EUS-PPG procedure. Predominant adverse events were abdominal pain 6.1% (9/147) and sore throat 5.4% (8/147).ConclusionEUS-PPG measurement is safe and useful in providing an assessment of portal pressure in patients with chronic liver disease. Future studies are needed to evaluate whether there is consistent correlation between EUS-PPG measurements and histologic fibrosis stage by liver biopsy.

The effect of endoscopic gastric plication on portosystemic pressure gradient in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and compensated advanced chronic liver disease.

The goals of therapy for patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and compensated advanced chronic liver disease include weight loss and reduction of the portosystemic pressure gradient (PPG) to decrease the risk of hepatic decompensation. Endoscopic gastric plication (EGP) is an effective endoscopic weight loss procedure. This study aimed to assess the effect of EGP on PPG. In this prospective pilot study, patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and compensated advanced chronic liver disease underwent endoscopic ultrasound-guided PPG measurement prior to and at 6 months following EGP. Primary outcomes were the change in PPG and proportion of patients experiencing ≥ 20 % reduction in PPG at 6 months. Secondary outcomes included percent total weight loss (TWL) and changes in noninvasive tests of fibrosis. 20 patients were included. Baseline median body mass index and liver stiffness measurement were 40.2 kg/m2 (range 30.1-56.7) and 14.7 kPa (range 8.2-36), respectively. At 6 months, median PPG decreased from 5.4 mmHg (range 0.7-19.6) to 1.8 mmHg (range 0.4-17.6) (P = 0.002), with 79 % (11/14) experiencing ≥ 20 % reduction. Patients experienced 12.5 % (6.5 %-26.1 %) TWL (P < 0.001) at 6 months, with 89 % (17/19) achieving ≥ 7 % and 68 % (13/19) achieving ≥ 10 % TWL. There were significant improvements in noninvasive tests of fibrosis. EGP appeared to be effective at reducing PPG in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and compensated advanced chronic liver disease.

The transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt: Smaller stent diameters are required to optimize pressure response

The present treatment goal of the transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is a portosystemic pressure gradient of ≤12 mmHg or its reduction by >50%. This study relates the stent diameter to the reduction of the pressure gradient and attempts to predict the appropriate stent diameter necessary to reach the treatment goal. Pressure response, super response, and poor response were investigated in 208 de-novo TIPS patients and defined as post-TIPS gradients between >6 and 12 mmHg, ≤6 mmHg, or not reaching the goal (>12 mmHg, reduction <50%), respectively. Pressures were related to the smallest stent diameters measured by planimetry of the radiographic image. Responders (65%), super responders (26%), or poor responders (9%) had comparable stent diameters of 7.2 ± 1.0 mm, but different post-TIPS gradients (9.7 ± 1.9 mmHg, 4.5 ± 1.5 mmHg, and 14.2 ± 1.4 mmHg, p < 0.001), relative reduction of pre-TIPS gradients (51.7 ± 11.4%, 73.6 ± 11.1%, and 34.0 ± 9.1%, p < 0.001), and specific reduction per mm of stent diameter (7.5 ± 2.0%/mm, 10.1 ± 2.0%/mm, and 4.8 ± 1.4%/mm, p < 0.001). Prediction of the stent diameter required to reach response was not possible. Only two super responders had a stent diameter of <6 mm. Super and poor responders differed by the increase in the right atrial pressure (+5.0 mmHg vs. +3.1 mmHg, p = 0.026) and reduction in the portal vein pressure (−8.6 mmHg vs. −4.6 mmHg, p < 0.001). Most patients reached the treatment goal with stent diameters of <8 mm. Overtreatment (super response, gradient ≤6 mmHg) can be prevented by stent diameters as small as 6 mm. The individual response was not related to the stent diameter and not predictable. Cardiac dysfunction may play an important role by its effect on the right atrial (preload) and portal pressure (afterload).

Portal Venous Remodeling Determines the Pattern of Cirrhosis Decompensation: A Systems Analysis.

As liver disease progresses, scarring results in worsening hemodynamics ultimately culminating in portal hypertension. This process has classically been quantified through the portosystemic pressure gradient (PSG), which is clinically estimated by hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG); however, PSG alone does not predict a given patient's clinical trajectory regarding the Baveno stage of cirrhosis. We hypothesize that a patient's PSG sensitivity to venous remodeling could explain disparate disease trajectories. We created a computational model of the portal system in the context of worsening liver disease informed by physiologic measurements from the field of portal hypertension. We simulated progression of clinical complications, HVPG, and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt placement while only varying a patient's likelihood of portal venous remodeling. Our results unify hemodynamics, venous remodeling, and the clinical progression of liver disease into a mathematically consistent model of portal hypertension. We find that by varying how sensitive patients are to create venous collaterals with rising PSG we can explain variation in patterns of decompensation for patients with liver disease. Specifically, we find that patients who have higher proportions of portosystemic shunting earlier in disease have an attenuated rise in HVPG, delayed onset of ascites, and less hemodynamic shifting after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt placement. This article builds a computational model of portal hypertension which supports that patient-level differences in venous remodeling may explain disparate clinical trajectories of disease.

Preliminary clinical observation of double C-arm digital subtraction angiography guidance during transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt placement

BackgroundThis study aimed to investigate the safety, preliminary clinical experience, and technical advantages of double C-arm digital subtraction angiography -assisted portal vein puncture for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt.MethodsClinical data of 25 patients with portal hypertension caused by liver cirrhosis were retrospectively analyzed from January 2021 to June 2022. The fluoroscopy time, puncture time, mean portosystemic pressure gradient, dose area product, and intraoperative and postoperative complications were recorded.ResultsTransjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt was performed in all 25 patients, with a success rate of 100%. The fluoroscopy time, puncture time, and dose area product were 33.6 ± 8.5 min, 9.1 ± 5.7 min, and 126 ± 53 Gy·cm2, respectively. The mean portosystemic pressure gradient decreased from 22.5 ± 6.3 mmHg to 10.5 ± 2.3 mmHg (p < 0.01). No serious intraoperative and postoperative complications were found.ConclusionDouble C-arm digital subtraction angiography-assisted portal vein puncture is safe and feasible in transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt operation. It can reduce the difficulty of the operation and possesses evident technical advantages.

Left gastric vein embolization during TIPS placement for acute variceal bleeding has no effect on bleeding recurrence: Results of a multicenter study

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to evaluate whether concomitant left gastric vein embolization (LGVE) during transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) for acute variceal hemorrhage could reduce the risk of bleeding recurrence. Material and methodA national multicenter observational study was conducted in 14 centers between January 2019 and December 2020. All cirrhotic patients who underwent TIPS placement for acute variceal bleeding were included. During TIPS procedure, size of left gastric vein (LGV), performance of LGVE, material used for LGVE and portosystemic pressure gradient (PPG) before and after TIPS placement were collected. A propensity score for the occurrence of LGVE was calculated to assess effect of LGVE on rebleeding recurrence at six weeks and one year. ResultsA total of 356 patients were included (mean age 57.3 ± 10.8 [standard deviation] years; 283/356 [79%] men). Median follow-up was 11.2 months [interquartile range: 1.2, 13.3]. The main indication for TIPS was pre-emptive TIPS (162/356; 46%), rebleeding despite secondary prophylaxis (105/356; 29%), and salvage TIPS (89/356; 25%). Overall, 128/356 (36%) patients underwent LGVE during TIPS procedure. At six weeks and one year, rebleeding-free survival did not differ significantly between patients who underwent LGVE and those who did not (6/128 [5%] vs. 15/228 [7%] at six weeks, and 11/128 [5%] vs. 22/228 [7%] at one year, P = 0.622 and P = 0.889 respectively). A total of 55 pairs of patients were retained after propensity score matching. In patients without LGVE, the rebleeding rate was not different from those with LGVE (3/55 [5%] vs. 4/55 [7%], P > 0.99, and 5/55 [9%] vs. 6/55[11%], P > 0.99, at six weeks and one year respectively). Multivariable analysis identified PPG after TIPS placement as the only predictor of bleeding recurrence (hazard ratio = 1.09; 95% confidence interval: 1.02–1.18; P = 0.012). ConclusionIn this multicenter national real-life study, we did not observe any benefit of concomitant LGVE during TIPS placement for acute variceal bleeding on bleeding recurrence rate.

Right vs leftportal branch puncture in TIPS creation with controlled expansion covered stent: comparison of hemodynamic and clinical outcomes.

To retrospectively compare outcomes of TIPS performed by puncturing left portal vein (LPV) vs right portal vein (RPV) to access the portal system. One hundred ninety-three consecutive patients underwent TIPS with controlled expansion covered stent by using the LPV (37 patients) or the RPV (156 patients). Patients were followed until the last clinical evaluation, liver transplantation, or death. Demographics and clinical characteristics of the two groups were comparable. The median follow-up was 9.6 months (range 0.1-50.6).Portosystemic pressure gradient (PSG) before TIPS15.7 mmHg ± 4.7 in RPV group (RPVG)vs 15.4 mmHg ± 4.5 in LPV group (LPVG) (p = 0.725). After TIPS, PSG6.3 mmHg ± 2.8 in RPVGvs 6.2 mmHg ± 2.2 (p = 0.839). In LPVG, the stent was dilated to 8-mm in 95% of patients vs 77% of RPVG (p = 0.015). Two (5.4%) and 22 (14%) patients underwent TIPS revision in LPVG and RPVG (p = 0.15). The incidence of overt HE was 13% in LPVG and 24% in RPVG (p = 0.177). Rebleeding occurred in 3 of 49 patients (6%) with variceal bleeding as an indication: 2/41 patients (4.9%) in RPVG vs 1/8 patients (12.5%) in LPVG (p = 0.417). Among 126 patients with refractory ascites 20 patients (15.9%) neededparacentesis 3 months after the procedure: 18/101 patients (17.8%) in RPVG vs 2/25 patients (8%) in LPVG (p = 0.231).Thirty-seven patients (19%) died: 32 (21%) in RPVG and5 (14%) in LPVG (p = 0.337). Compared with RPV puncture, in TIPS created through the LPV, the targeted PSG was reached with a smaller stent diameter. However, no significant difference in clinical outcomes was observed. • A LPV approach for TIPS creation does not lead to better control of complications of portal hypertension as compared to a RPV approach.

Safety and effectiveness of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt in hepatocellular carcinoma patients with portal hypertension: a systematic review and meta-analysis

<h3>AIM</h3> To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with portal hypertension. <h3>MATERIALS AND METHODS</h3> Databases including PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library (in English, until 1 October 2020) were searched for eligible studies. Data were pooled by the random-effects model using the Stata 13.0 software. Heterogeneity was assessed by I² statistic and subgroup analyses. <h3>RESULTS</h3> Ten studies (all case series) meeting the inclusion criteria were enrolled, including 655 HCC patients in whom TIPS was performed. The portosystemic pressure gradient reduction was statistically significant (standardized mean difference [SMD] –2.99, 95% confidence interval [CI]: –3.51, –2.47). The technical success rate was 99.7%. The response rates of oesophagogastric variceal bleeding (OGVB) and refractory ascites were 99.5% and 88.2%, respectively. The 30-day, 90-day, and 365-day overall survival (OS) rates were 91.9%, 61.1%, and 46.3%, respectively. During follow-up, hepatic encephalopathy occurred in 29% of the patients, while TIPS dysfunction was observed in 23% of the patients. Few technique-related complications were reported, including tumour rupture (<i>n=</i>5), abdominal bleeding (<i>n=</i>8), and acute liver failure (<i>n=</i>2). <h3>CONCLUSION</h3> TIPS is a safe and effective treatment in HCC patients. Portal vein tumour thrombosis (PVTT) and cavernous transformation are the major cause of procedural failure and contribute to poor survival. Searching for the presence of PVTT and cavernous transformation is essential for assessing the safety and effectiveness of TIPS in HCC patients.

S3143 Rare Case of Plasma Cell Infiltration-Induced Cirrhosis

Introduction: Multiple myeloma (MM) is a type of malignancy that arises from the unorganized replication of plasma cells within the bone marrow. The overproduction of these cells damages systems throughout the body leading to early asymptomatic symptoms that can rapidly progress to systemic signs of disease. Liver involvement with MM is less common and generally occurs through plasma cell infiltration, light chain/amyloid deposition, and biliary obstruction. Though it can occur, the probability of it presenting near the time of diagnosis of MM is very rare and associated with poorer outcomes. Case Description/Methods: A 59-year-old male presented with generalized weakness, shortness of breath and weight gain. Physical exam showed sign of ascites and hepatomegaly. PMH was significant for esophageal cancer and a recent diagnosis of MM. No history of acute or chronic liver disease or cirrhosis risk factors. CT scan showed cardiomegaly, bilateral pleural effusions, pulmonary edema, and cirrhosis with abdominal ascites. Labs was unremarkable other than normocytic anemia. An echocardiogram showed mild reduced ejection fraction (47%) with speckle tracking suggestive of cardiac amyloidosis. Abdominal ultrasound confirmed appearance of cirrhosis, ascites, and right pleural effusion. Cirrhosis work up revealed negative hepatitis panel, normal alpha-1 antitrypsin, and normal ceruloplasmin. EGD was performed and ruled out extracellular vesicles (EV) but noted type I isolated gastric varices. Liver biopsy confirmed cirrhosis and showed portal tract damage with severe extensive plasma cell infiltration. Additionally, fragments of hepatic parenchymal showed disrupted lobular architecture by septal fibrosis and nodular formation. Immunohistochemistry was positive for CD3, CD20, CD5, BCL2, CD79a, and CD138 as well as increased lambda light chain compared to free kappa light chain. Despite extensive treatment including repeated thoracentesis and paracentesis, patient eventually developed in to decompensating liver cirrhosis (Figure 1). Discussion: In previous studies, plasma cell infiltration of the liver was seen in about 40% of cases of MM, but rarely lead to cirrhosis. This case is unique in that the patient had liver failure caused by cirrhosis and that it was some of the presenting symptoms. Whether due to masked signs or aggressive onset, the outcome for this diagnosis is poor and more specific factors observing liver function could have provided a more favorable outcome.Figure 1.: Cirrhosis secondary to plasma cell infiltration. Table 1. - Total Protein 5.0 g/dL Serum Ascites Albumin Gradient (SAAG) 1.9 g/dL Left Hepatic Vein Pressure 25 Hg Left Portal Vein Pressure 29 Hg Portosystemic Pressure Gradient 5 Hg EUS Guided Shear Wave Elastography of Liver 27 kPa

S2800 Endoscopic Ultrasound Guided Drainage of a Massive Right Sided Hemorrhagic Liver Cyst: The Rapidly Evolving Field of Endo-Hepatology

Introduction: Hepatic cysts are the most common benign lesions in the liver. Overall incidence among the population is about 5%, being more common in women. Therapeutic interventions are reserved for acutely symptomatic patients with life threatening complications. Herein, we highlight a unique case of a patient with a massive right hepatic cyst, drained under the guidance of an endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), along with a literature review of its applications in Endo-Hepatology. Case Description/Methods: A 76-year-old male with a history of benign liver cyst, presented with severe right upper quadrant abdominal pain associated with nausea and vomiting. On physical examination, he had a markedly distended, diffusely tender abdomen, with palpable hepatomegaly. Initial blood work revealed a Hb of 6.7 g/dL (known baseline Hb was 9 g/dL). Compared to previous imaging from 2014 (Figure A), CT abdomen revealed significant enlargement of a known right hepatic cyst (largest dimension: 24.2 X 16 X 25.6 cm) (Figure B). Volume resuscitation with blood transfusions was done. An EUS guided drainage of the cyst using a Lumen-Apposing Metal Stent (LAMS) was performed. After locating an appropriate avascular window, the cyst was successfully traversed, sterile contrast was used to delineate the lesion, followed by deployment of the LAMS. A total of 2.8 liters of dark, reddish-brown fluid was drained, with an additional 1.1 liter suctioned out through a nasogastric (NG) tube over the next 24 hours. Following the procedure, the patient remained hemodynamically stable with significant improvement symptomatically. Discussion: Diagnostic imaging is essential in delineating the characteristics of liver cysts to determine the appropriate intervention. Decision regarding the choice of intervention should be individualized for each patient. Therapeutic interventions for liver cysts are predominantly performed through a percutaneous (PC) route, with EUS being deemed as a safe alternative when PC intervention is not favorable. The efficacy and recurrence rates of liver cysts after drainage with EUS versus PC drainage with sclerotherapy have been compared previously, with EUS guided drainage being recognized traditionally as a safe approach in drainage of left/caudate lobe hepatic cysts, and PC drainage being preferred for right lobe/hepatic dome cysts. EUS also aids in detection of smaller, focal liver lesions not apparent on gross imaging, elastography, biopsies, portosystemic pressure gradient monitoring and thermal ablative therapy.Figure 1.: Figure A : 2014, demonstrates the right hepatic cyst. Figure B : 2022, demonstrates the significantly enlarged right hepatic cyst (largest dimension : 24.2 X 16 X 25.6 cm).

Coaxial Stent Graft inside a Constraining Stent for Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Reduction

A technique to create a coaxial, self-expanding stent graft inside a constraining, bare-metal, balloon-expandable stent for transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) reduction is described. The key steps are performed on a back table rather than inside the patient, and the resulting construct is deployed using standard unsheathing maneuvers. The construct was used in 4 patients to make 6 TIPS diameter reductions (mean postreduction diameter, 6 mm; range, 0–8 mm), all resulting in increases in the portosystemic pressure gradient (mean increase, 6 mm Hg; range, 1–19 mm Hg). On average, hepatic encephalopathy improved 1 point on the West Haven scale (range, 0–2).

Clinical Outcomes and Patency after Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Reduction for Overshunting Adverse Events

PurposeTo assess clinical outcomes and patency after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) reduction for overshunting adverse events. Materials and MethodsThis multicenter, retrospective observational study included 33 patients (male-to-female ratio, 20:13; mean age, 59 years; mean Model for End-Stage Liver Disease [MELD] score, 15) who underwent TIPS reduction between 2007 and 2020. Procedure indications included medically refractory hepatic encephalopathy (HE) (85%), post-TIPS hepatic insufficiency (HI) (12%), and heart failure (3%). The measured outcomes included improvement in HE (classified using the West Haven system) and HI, patency of reduced TIPS, and transplant-free survival (TFS). ResultsTIPS reductions were successfully performed using parallel stent (94%) or other (6%) techniques at a median of 120 days after TIPS creation (HE, median, 164 days; HI, median, 5 days). The portosystemic pressure gradient increased from a mean of 10 to 17 mm Hg (P < .001). The overall HE rate after TIPS reduction was 54%; HE was persistent, improved, and resolved in 21%, 32%, and 46% cases, respectively. In patients with HI, the MELD score increased from a mean of 22 before TIPS to 34 after TIPS (P = .061), but without improvement (0%) in HI after TIPS reduction (mean MELD score, 30; P = .266). Recurrent ascites occurred in 14% of the patients. The median shunt patency was 961 days (95% confidence interval, 476–1,447). The 30-day, 6-month, 1-year, and 3-year shunt patency rates were 92%, 81%, 74%, and 37%, respectively. The median TFS was not reached. The 30-day, 6-month, 1-year, and 3-year survival rates were 97%, 90%, 81%, and 60%, respectively. ConclusionsAlthough TIPS reduction may be an effective and durable approach to treat post-TIPS medically refractory HE, shunt reduction may not achieve meaningful benefit for HI.

Assessment of Clinical Outcomes, Clinical Manifestations, and Risk Factors for Hepatic Infarction After Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Placement (TIPS): A Retrospective Comparative Study.

To describe the imaging findings of hepatic infarction after transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement and identify risk factors, clinical manifestations, and outcomes of infarction after TIPS. In this retrospective analysis of a TIPS registry (1995-2021), cirrhotic patients with hepatic infarction (n = 33) and control patients without infarct (n = 33) after TIPS were identified. Laboratory values, ultrasound findings, and clinical variables were compared between groups to identify risk factors and differences in outcomes. A Cox proportional hazards regression model with propensity score was used to assess the effect of hepatic infarction on mortality and acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF) score. Hepatic infarction involved the right posterior segments (segments VI or VII) in 32 of 33 patients. Prolonged vasopressor requirement (p = 0.003) and intensive care unit stay (p = 0.001) were seen in patients with hepatic infarct, as well as trends toward lower post-TIPS portosystemic pressure gradient (p = 0.061) and higher risk of ACLF (p = 0.056). Procedure-related portal vein thrombosis or hepatic artery injury was identified in 12 and 5 patients with infarct, respectively. Patients with infarct had higher postprocedural aspartate aminotransferase (p < 0.001) and alanine aminotransferase (p < 0.001) levels, higher international normalized ratio (p = 0.016), lower platelet count (p = 0.042), and a greater decrease in hemoglobin level (p = 0.003). Hepatic infarction most frequently affects the right posterior hepatic segments after TIPS and results in a worse postprocedural course. Procedure-related complications and critically low portosystemic pressure gradient may contribute to TIPS-associated hepatic infarct.

Retrospective evaluation of early thrombosis in transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic polytetrafluoroethylene-coated shunts under 2-day postinterventional heparinization

The development of acute thrombosis within the TIPS tract may be prevented by prophylactic anticoagulation; however, there is no evidence of the correct anticoagulation regimen after TIPS placement. The purpose of this single-center retrospective study was to evaluate the short-term occlusion rate of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPSs) with polytetrafluorethylene (PTFE)-coated stents under consequent periprocedural full heparinization (target partial thromboplastin time [PTT]: 60–80 s). We analyzed TIPS placements that were followed up over a six-month period by Doppler ultrasound in 94 patients and compared the study group of 54 patients who received intravenous periprocedural full heparinization (target PTT: 60–80 s) without any other anticoagulation to patients with prolonged anticoagulation medication. The primary endpoint was TIPS patency after six months. The primary patency rate was 88.3% overall, and in the study group, 90.7%, with an early thrombosis rate of 3.2% (study group: 1.9%) and a primary assisted patency rate of 95.7% (study group: 96.3%). In the study group, one case of TIPS thrombosis occurred on the 23rd day after TIPS placement. Two patients underwent reintervention because of stenosis or buckling. Moreover, the target PTT was not attained in 8 of the 54 patent TIPSs. Four patients had an increased portosystemic pressure gradient, without stenosis, and the flow rate was corrected by increasing the TIPS diameter by dilation. Two-day heparinization seems sufficient to avoid early TIPS thrombosis over a six-month period.

Selection of a portosystemic shunt placement procedure (TIPS) in the treatment of complicated portal hypertension

Aim. To improve treatment results in patients with the life-threatening complications of cirrhotic portal hypertension by making an informed choice of the optimal TIPS (transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt) variant.Materials and methods. A total of 234 patients suffering from the complications of cirrhotic portal hypertension underwent TIPS placement. The indications for shunt placement include esophageal and gastric varices exhibiting the signs of bleeding or carrying the risk of rebleeding (in 172 patients), refractory ascites (in 57 patients), and portal vein thrombosis in the setting of cirrhosis (in 5 patients). Patients from Group 1 underwent shunt placement together with the embolization of inflow pathways to esophageal and gastric varices. In Group 2, priority was given to perioperative therapy, while shunt placement was used together with embolization only in cases of severe varices. In Group 3, the shunt placement stage was combined with the portal blood flow restoration. Immediate and late results were studied in terms of complications, as well as mortality rate and survival rates.Results. The maximum observation duration amounted to 140 months (11.7 years). TIPS efficacy in all patients was confirmed by a statistically significant decrease in the portosystemic pressure gradient. In Group 1, the highest mortality rate associated with rebleeding was observed in patients who had undergone only shunt placement (30.6%), while the lowest rate was noted in patients whose inflow pathways to varices had first been embolized and who then had undergone intrahepatic shunt placement (7.1%). Patients in Group 2 exhibited a reduction in ascites and the severity of varices. The technical feasibility of TIPS in the setting of portal vein thrombosis was enhanced by experience accumulation and preoperative planning relying on careful interpretation of computed splenoportography data.Conclusion. It is reasonable to combine the shunt placement stage of TIPS for variceal bleeding with selective embolization of all radiologically detected inflow pathways to gastroesophageal varices. If the portal vein thrombosis is not accompanied by cavernous transformation, TIPS can achieve effective portal decompression provided the portal blood flow is restored.

Abstract No. 190 Comparing effects of constrained transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt created using 10 mm versus 12 mm endoprostheses on portosystemic pressure gradient, rates of hepatic encephalopathy and variceal bleeding

To compare how creation of constrained transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) using differently sized endoprostheses, specifically 10 mm versus 12 mm, affects degree of portosystemic pressure gradient reduction and rates of variceal bleeding (EV), and hepatic encephalopathy (HE)

25\xa0years of experience with transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS): changes in patient selection and procedural aspects

BackgroundTIPS is an established treatment for portal hypertension. The aim was to analyze how patient selection for TIPS implantation and procedural aspects have changed over 25 years. Routinely collected demographic, clinical, laboratory, and procedural data of 835 patients treated with TIPS in a single center were used. Time trends over the observational period from 1993 to 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. Descriptive statistical analysis was performed.ResultsThe most common indication for TIPS implantation has changed significantly from secondary prevention of variceal hemorrhage in the early years to treatment of recurrent ascites. During the observation period, increasingly more severely ill patients became TIPS candidates. There was little change in MELD scores over this period (in total median 13.00; IQR 10.00–18.00). The proportion of patients with Child–Pugh C cirrhosis increased. The most frequent underlying diseases in total were alcohol-related liver disease (66.5%) and viral hepatitis (11.9%). However, shares of cryptogenic liver cirrhosis, autoimmune hepatitis, and NASH increased over time. The proportion of patients post liver transplant also increased. While bare metal stents were standard in the past, use of covered stents increased. The success rate of TIPS (defined by successful implantation and a decrease in the portosystemic pressure gradient ≤ 12 mmHg) increased significantly over time. The total success rate according to this definition was 84.9%.ConclusionThe results of our analysis reflect technical developments in TIPS, especially in terms of stent material and gains in clinical experience, particularly regarding indications and patient selection for TIPS implantation.

Endoscopic Ultrasound-Guided Porto-systemic Pressure Gradient Measurement Correlates with Histological Hepatic Fibrosis.

Endoscopic ultrasound is a novel diagnostic approach to chronic liver diseases (CLDs), and EUS-guided porto-systemic pressure gradient measurement (EUS-PPG) is an important expansion with a well-developed technique. However, the clinical value and applicability of EUS-PPG measurement in predicting histologically advanced hepatic fibrosis remain unknown. This was a single-center retrospective study on patients with various CLDs undergoing EUS-PPG and EUS-guided liver biopsy (EUS-bx) to assess if EUS-PPG measurements correlate with histological fibrosis stage and various surrogate markers for severity of CLDs and its safety. Cases with EUS-PPG were identified at the University of California Irvine, a tertiary endoscopy center, between January 2014 and March 2020. In 64 patients, the mean age was 57.5; 40 (62.5%), males; mean Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) scores, 5.9 and 10.4, respectively. The procedure success rate was 100%. Twenty-nine (45.3%) had EUS-PPG ≥ 5mmHg that was associated with clinical cirrhosis (p < 0.0001), clinical portal hypertension (p = 0.002), hepatic decompensation (p = 0.013), MELD-Na > 10 (p = 0.036), PLTs ≤ 120 × 109/L (p = 0.001), INR ≥ 1.05 (p = 0.007), presence of EV, GV, or PHG (p < 0.0001), biopsy-proven fibrosis stage ≥ 3 (p = 0.002), APRI > 2 (p = 0.001), and FIB-4 > 3.25 (p = 0.001). Multivariable analysis confirmed that EUS-PPG ≥ 5mmHg was significantly associated with liver biopsy-proven fibrosis stage ≥ 3 (LR 27.0, 95% CI = 1.653-360.597, p = 0.004), independent of C-cirrhosis, C-PHTN, thrombocytopenia, splenomegaly, and APRI score > 2, and FIB-4 score > 3.25. There were no serious complications related to EUS-PPG procedures. EUS-PPG measurements provide excellent correlation with histological hepatic fibrosis stage and various clinical, laboratory, endoscopic and imaging variables indicative of advanced liver disease without serious adverse events.

Comparison of the Covered Self-Expandable Viatorr CX Stent with the Covered Balloon-Expandable BeGraft Peripheral Stent for Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) Creation: a Single-Centre Retrospective Study in Patients with Variceal Bleeding.

This study compares the safety and efficacy of the ePTFE-covered self-expansible nitinol stent (VIATORR® Controlled Expansion, Gore, Flagstaff, USA) with the ePTFE-covered, balloon-expandable, metallic stent (BeGraft peripheral, Bentley, Hechingen, Germany) for the creation of the transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). From September 2016 to December 2020, 72 consecutive patients receiving TIPS for acute variceal bleeding (rescue and early TIPS, n = 15) or for prophylaxis of variceal rebleeding (n = 57) were enrolled. The main contraindications were patients with vascular liver disease (portal vein thrombosis and Budd-Chiari syndrome). Forty patients (55.6%) received a Viatorr CX stent and 32 patients (44.4%) a BeGraft peripheral stent. Safety endpoints were technical and clinical adverse events and early deaths within 30days after TIPS implantation. Efficacy endpoints were rebleeding rates, recurrence of large varices requiring endoscopic band ligation, or TIPS revision. Groups receiving the Viatorr CX or BeGraft peripheral stent were comparable in all respects except the TIPS indication for acute variceal bleeding (5% vs. 25%, p = 0.015). All patients had a successful intervention, and the physical variables of stent implantation (intervention and fluoroscopy time, reduction of the portosystemic pressure gradient) as well as adjunctive embolization of varices were similar in both groups. Severe clinical complications (Viatorr CX: 5% vs. BeGraft peripheral: 3.1%, p = 0.692), post-TIPS hepatic encephalopathy (12.5% vs. 18.8%, p = 0.743) and death (5% vs. 0%, p = 0.793) were not different between Viatorr CX and BeGraft peripheral groups. With respect to efficacy, freedom from rebleeding and from variceal band ligation during follow-up (100% vs. 100%, p = 1.0), as well as the need for shunt revision (10.5% vs. 18.8%, p = 0.327), was comparable. Compared to the present gold standard, the Viatorr CX stent, the balloon-expandable BeGraft peripheral stent, showed similar results with respect to safety and efficacy.