Underdilated-Stent Technique for Post-TIPS Encephalopathy Improvement

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is a vital treatment for managing bleeding in the esophagus and stomach, as well as stubborn fluid build-up in the abdomen due to liver cirrhosis. However, a common complication after this procedure is hepatic encephalopathy (HE), a condition that affects the brain. Currently, no reliable studies have found a drug or intervention that can effectively prevent HE after TIPS, including drugs like lactulose and rifaximin. This study focuses on a new technique called Underdilated Strategy (UDS). UDS uses a smaller balloon to expand the tract and then places a standard-sized covered stent. This allows the stent to maintain a smaller size initially, potentially reducing the risk of HE after the procedure. Over time, the stent gradually expands to its normal size. The study aims to evaluate if UDS can improve post-operative HE without affecting the treatment's effectiveness for portal hypertension complications.