Portacaval Shunt in Maharashtra

Is TIPS a better option than surgical shunt surgery?

TIPS has largely replaced open surgical portacaval shunts in most centers due to its less invasive nature, but the right choice depends on your specific liver condition, which your hepatologist and surgical team will assess together.

Does a shunt cure the underlying liver disease?

No, a shunt only relieves the pressure complications of portal hypertension; the underlying liver disease, such as cirrhosis, still needs to be managed separately by a hepatologist.

What is the risk of confusion after a portacaval shunt?

Diverting blood around the liver can sometimes increase the risk of toxin buildup causing confusion (hepatic encephalopathy), which your medical team monitors for and manages with dietary and medical measures.

How long is recovery after this surgery?

Recovery from an open surgical shunt typically takes six to eight weeks given the complexity of the procedure and the underlying liver disease, while TIPS generally involves a shorter recovery period.

Is a liver transplant a better long-term solution?

For patients with advanced liver disease, transplant addresses both the underlying disease and its complications and may be considered alongside or instead of shunt procedures, a decision made by your hepatology and transplant team.