Portacaval shunting is a surgical treatment to create new connections between two blood vessels in your abdomen. It is used to treat people who have severe liver problems.
Shunt - portacaval
Portacaval shunting is a major surgical procedure. The procedure involves a large cut in the belly area (abdomen). The surgeon then makes a connection between the portal vein (which supplies most of the liver's blood), and the inferior vena cava (the vein that drains blood from most of the lower part of the body).
The new connection diverts blood flow way from the liver. This reduces blood pressure in the portal vein and decreases the risk of a tear (rupture) and bleeding from the veins in the esophagus and stomach.
Normally, blood coming from your esophagus, stomach, and intestines first flows through the liver. This is called portal hypertension (increased pressure and backup of the portal vein). When your liver is very damaged and there are blockages, the blood cannot flow through it easily. The veins can then break open (rupture), causing serious bleeding.
Common causes of portal hypertension are:
When portal hypertension occurs, you may have:
Portacaval shunting diverts part of your blood flow from the liver, and improves blood flow in your stomach, esophagus, and intestines.
Portacaval shunting is most often done when transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunting (TIPS) has not worked. TIPS is a much simpler, less invasive procedure.
Risks for any anesthesia are:
Risks for any surgery are:
Complications from this procedure include:
People with liver disease are at a much higher risk for complications after surgery.
Patients with severe liver disease that is getting worse should be evaluated for liver transplant.
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