Surgical Portosystemic Shunts, also known as portosystemic shunting or intrahepatic portosystemic shunting, are medical procedures aimed at creating an alternative pathway for blood flow between the portal vein and systemic circulation. The portal vein carries nutrient-rich, oxygen-poor blood from the digestive organs to the liver for filtration and detoxification. However, in certain liver diseases or conditions, there may be an increase in pressure within the portal vein, leading to complications such as portal hypertension.
To alleviate the complications associated with portal hypertension, Surgical Portosystemic Shunts are performed to redirect blood flow away from the congested portal system. The procedure involves creating a connection or shunt between the portal vein and a nearby systemic vein, bypassing the liver. This diversion of blood helps reduce the pressure within the portal vein and, subsequently, relieves symptoms like esophageal varices (abnormal blood vessels in the esophagus) and ascites (accumulation of fluid in the abdomen).
There are different types of Surgical Portosystemic Shunts, including the distal splenorenal shunt (connecting the splenic vein to the left renal vein), the mesocaval shunt (connecting the superior mesenteric vein to the inferior vena cava), and the transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). Each type has its specific indications and advantages based on the patient's condition and liver function.
Surgical Portosystemic Shunts are typically recommended for patients who have failed other medical treatments for portal hypertension or those who have complications that require urgent intervention. However, like any surgical procedure, these shunts carry potential risks and complications, including bleeding, thrombosis (clot formation), enceph
