Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a serious complication of chronic liver disease caused by the buildup of toxins, primarily ammonia, in the bloodstream due to poor liver function. In patients with refractory or recurrent HE, endovascular treatment performed by an interventional radiologist can help improve blood flow dynamics, reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Indications for Endovascular Treatment of Hepatic Encephalopathy

✅ Recurrent or persistent HE despite optimal medical therapy (lactulose, rifaximin)
✅ Patients with large portosystemic shunts leading to excessive toxin buildup
✅ Severe HE affecting daily life, cognition, or risk of coma
✅ Patients who are not candidates for liver transplantation but need symptom relief
✅ Post-TIPS (Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt) patients with HE complications

Procedure Details

1. Preparation: The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with mild sedation for comfort.
2. Catheter-Based Access: A small catheter is inserted through a vein in the groin or neck and guided using real-time X-ray (fluoroscopy) to the abnormal blood vessels contributing to HE.
3. Endovascular Treatment Options:
   • Shunt Embolization – If a large spontaneous portosystemic shunt is diverting too much blood away from the liver, it can be partially or fully blocked using coils or plugs to restore normal blood flow through the liver.
   • TIPS Revision or Reduction – If the HE is caused by a previously placed TIPS shunt, the stent diameter can be narrowed to reduce blood diversion and improve liver filtering capacity.
4. Completion: Once the blood flow is optimized, the catheter is removed, and a small bandage is applied. The procedure typically takes 60–90 minutes, and patients are observed for a short period.

Benefits of Endovascular Treatment for Hepatic Encephalopathy

✔ Minimally Invasive: No need for open surgery, reducing risks and recovery time
✔ Targeted Therapy: Directly addresses the underlying vascular cause of HE
✔ Improves Mental Function: Reduces episodes of confusion, memory loss, and brain fog
✔ Enhances Quality of Life: Allows patients to be more independent and functional
✔ Quick Recovery: Most patients experience improvement within days and can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure

Why Choose Us for Endovascular HE Treatment?

✅ Expert Interventional Radiologists – Specialized in liver vascular procedures
✅ Advanced Imaging & Technology – Ensuring precise, safe, and effective shunt embolization or revision
✅ Minimally Invasive Approach – Lower risk, faster healing, and shorter hospital stays
✅ Collaborative Liver Care Team – Coordinated management with hepatologists and transplant specialists for the best outcomes

If you or a loved one suffers from refractory hepatic encephalopathy, a minimally invasive endovascular procedure may offer significant relief. Contact us today to discuss your treatment options!