Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt placement in liver transplant recipients: experiences with pediatric and adult patients.

Abstract

The purpose of our study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) in pediatric and adult liver transplant recipients. A retrospective review of six TIPS placed in six liver transplant recipients-a pediatric patient with a split liver transplant, a pediatric patient with left lateral segment transplant, and four adult patients-was performed. TIPS placement in both pediatric and adult liver transplant recipients is feasible. In liver transplant patients who are recipients of a left lateral segment or a split liver transplant, knowledge of the liver transplant anatomy is critical in the placement of TIPS. TIPS placement is a treatment option and a bridge to retransplantation for patients who have undergone liver transplantation and develop sequelae of portal hypertension.