Risks and Complications of the TIPS Procedure

If you are considering the TIPS procedure, you should be aware of potential risks and complications. Read on for information about the procedure, its pre-procedural evaluation, and possible complications. TIPS is also called transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt. It is a surgical procedure that helps to drain the liver through the jugular vein.

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedure

The Transjugular intrahepatic port-systemic shunt (TIPS) is a surgical procedure for liver disease. It involves the placement of a stent into a portal vein. The procedure is safe and has an excellent success rate. It is a challenging procedure that requires detailed knowledge of the patient’s anatomy and general condition. In addition, it is best performed by a highly skilled interventionalist. The TIPS procedure entails catheterization of the jugular vein, dilatation of the intrahepatic tract and placement of an expandable stent graft.

Complications

Despite the high rate of success, the TIPS procedure is not without its risks. Although most major complications are manageable, some can be life-threatening. These complications are not very common. In general, only three to five percent of TIPS procedures cause serious complications.

Pre-procedural evaluation

Pre-procedural evaluation is important before undergoing TIPS surgery. The procedure is technically challenging and requires visualization of the portal venous and systemic systems. Insufficient visualization can result in puncturing other parts of the PV. If this occurs, there could be a risk of massive intraperitoneal hemorrhage.

Side effects

There are a number of potential side effects associated with the TIPS procedure. Though most are minor, some can be severe. Some of these complications are treatable with medication.

Risks

The risks of TIPS surgery are considered to be minor, given the low incidence of major complications, which can be treated effectively with medical interventions. Although some complications can be fatal, they are relatively uncommon. Overall, about 3% of patients will experience a major complication during TIPS surgery. Of these, the most common and fatal complications are organ failure and hemobilia.