Post-TIPS Short-term Low Molecular Weight Heparin for the Prevention of Early TIPS Dysfunction

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) dysfunction is defined as a loss of decompression of the portal venous system due to occlusion or stenosis of the TIPS. Occlusion of the TIPS can either be due to thrombosis or hyperplasia of the intima. Thrombosis of the TIPS usually occurs early and can happen within 24 hours of TIPS creation. The frequency of this complication is on the order of 10%-15% when bare stents are used. Post-TIPS short-term low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) was used to prevent the early thrombosis formation. Weather post-TIPS LMWH was necessary when polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stent was used during TIPS creation was not answered. The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of short-term use of LMWH on early TIPS dysfunction.