Sebastian Kaulitzki / Science Photo Library / Getty Images
What Is TIPS?
A portal vein transports blood to the liver from the spleen, stomach, pancreas, and intestines.
A TIPS procedure is performed under image guidance.
Sebastian Kaulitzki / Science Photo Library / Getty Images
Dye is injected at different points to allow the radiologist to effectively see the veins.
There are other options to treat the symptoms prior to pursuing this option.
Your doctor may decide to try this approach to prevent excessive bleeding.
In this scenario, the rebleeding should be managed with a TIPS procedure.
The procedure, if successful, is likely to lower mortality and improve control of ascites.
What to Wear
Its important to arrive on the day of the procedure wearing comfortable clothes.
Patients will be asked to change into a procedure gown prior to entering the procedure room.
During the Procedure
The procedure generally takes 60 to 90 minutes to complete.
Numbing medication will be given to the neck, where the catheter is inserted into the jugular vein.
Medication will be given to help the patient relax if they will be awake for the procedure.
When the radiologist deploys the stent, there may be some pressure or pain in the abdominal area.
This is expected and normal during this procedure.
The minimally invasive approach reduces the time it takes to recover from the procedure.
Healing
There is not usually pain following the procedure, although there may be some soreness.
A small dressing will cover the incision in the neck.
It may take about seven to 10 days to return to everyday activities.
It’s typically used to help with liver conditions like hepatitis and cirrhosis.
MedlinePlus.Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS).
2016;25(3):497-503. doi:10.6133/apjcn.092015.14
MedlinePlus.Loss of brain function - liver disease.
