From the Guidelines
The Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) procedure typically utilizes a 10-mm diameter stent, as it has been shown to be more effective in controlling refractory ascites without increasing the risk of encephalopathy compared to an 8-mm diameter stent 1.
Key Considerations
- The use of a polytetrafluoroethylene-covered stent can reduce the rate of stent obstruction 1.
- A 10-Fr introducer sheath and a 10-mm diameter balloon catheter are commonly used to facilitate shunt creation.
- A 16-gauge Colapinto needle is often employed for puncture of the portal vein, with a median needle length of 50-70 mm.
Procedure Details
- The TIPS procedure involves the creation of a shunt between the portal and hepatic veins to reduce portal pressure.
- The choice of stent diameter and type is crucial in minimizing the risk of complications, such as hepatic encephalopathy 1.
- Targeting post-TIPSS portosystemic gradient values of <12 mmHg may help reduce the risk of encephalopathy, but this value may need to be adjusted based on individual patient factors 1.
From the Research
Needle Size for TIPS Procedure
- The provided studies do not directly mention the needle size used for the Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) procedure 2, 3.
- However, the study by 2 mentions the use of a 10 Fr transducer, which may indicate the size of the equipment used, but it does not specifically state the needle size.
- The study by 3 mentions the use of a 10 Fr x 15-cm plastic stent, but this is related to the treatment of biliary obstruction after TIPS placement, not the TIPS procedure itself.
- Therefore, based on the provided evidence, there is no direct information available on the needle size used for the TIPS procedure.