About Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt

A transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is a minimally invasive procedure to connect two veins in the liver. This procedure is typically performed on patients with portal hypertension, or increased pressure in the portal vein system. A buildup of pressure in this area can cause blood to flow back from the liver into veins in the stomach, lower esophagus, and intestines.

TIPS connects the portal vein to the hepatic vein in the liver, utilizing a stent to keep the connection open. This reroutes blood draining from the bowel to return to the heart while avoiding the liver, preventing any backflow of blood and reducing high blood pressure in the portal vein.

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