A transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt, also TIPS, is an artificial channel in the liver from the portal vein to a hepatic vein (for blood). It is created endovascularly (via the blood vessels) by physicians via the jugular vein.

It is used to treat portal hypertension (which often is due to scarring of the liver (liver cirrhosis)) which frequently leads to bleeding esophageal varices.

Mechanism of action

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A TIPS decreases the effective vascular resistance of the liver. The result is a reduced pressure drop over the liver and a decreased portal venous pressure.

Use in hepatorenal syndrome

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TIPS has shown some promise for patients with hepatorenal syndrome.Guevara M, Rodes J. Hepatorenal syndrome. Int J Biochem Cell Biol. 2005 Jan;37(1):22-6. PMID 15381144.

See also

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• Portal venous system
• Distal splenorenal shunt procedure

Reference

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External links

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• RadiologyInfo: Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS)

• Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt - eMedicine.com.
• A schematic representation of a TIPS - University of Michigan.

Medical treatments | Gastroenterology | Hepatology