Liver Interventions
The liver is a vital organ in the body that performs many essential functions. Sometimes, it may be necessary to perform tests or procedures to diagnose and treat liver diseases. Interventional radiology offers a range of minimally invasive techniques that can be used to diagnose and treat liver conditions.Percutaneous
Liver Biopsy
Percutaneous liver biopsy is a minimally invasive procedure used to obtain a small sample of liver tissue for diagnosis and monitoring of liver disease. During the procedure, a long, thin needle is inserted through the skin and into the liver to obtain a tissue sample. The sample is then examined under a microscope for signs of inflammation, scarring, or other abnormalities. Percutaneous liver biopsy is a safe and commonly performed procedure with a low risk of complications.
Transjugular Liver Biopsy
Transjugular liver biopsy is a type of liver biopsy that is performed using a catheter that is inserted into the jugular vein in the neck. The catheter is then guided through the vein into the liver to obtain a tissue sample. This procedure is typically used when a percutaneous liver biopsy is not possible due to underlying medical conditions, such as ascites (fluid in the abdomen) or obesity. Transjugular liver biopsy has a lower risk of complications than percutaneous liver biopsy, but it may not be as effective in obtaining a large tissue sample.
Tips (Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt)
TIPS is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to treat complications of liver disease, such as portal hypertension. During the procedure, a shunt is placed between the portal vein and the hepatic vein to relieve pressure on the portal vein and reduce the risk of bleeding from enlarged veins in the esophagus or stomach. TIPS is a safe and effective procedure that can help improve quality of life for patients with liver disease.
Brto/Parto (Balloon-Occluded Retrograde Transvenous Obliteration/Plug-Assisted Retrograde Transvenous Obliteration)
BRTO and PARTO are minimally invasive procedures used to treat bleeding or enlarged veins in the liver. During the procedure, a catheter is inserted through a vein in the neck or groin and guided to the liver. A balloon or plug is then used to block off the affected vein, and a special solution is injected to close off the vein permanently. BRTO and PARTO are effective treatment options for patients with liver disease who experience bleeding or other complications due to enlarged or abnormal veins in the liver.
Portal Vein Embolization
Portal vein embolization is a minimally invasive procedure used to prepare the liver for surgery. During the procedure, a catheter is inserted through an artery in the groin and guided to the portal vein in the liver. Small particles are then injected into the portal vein to block off blood flow to one side of the liver. This causes the other side of the liver to grow and compensate for the loss of function, making it safer for a surgeon to remove a portion of the liver. Portal vein embolization can be an effective way to increase the success of liver surgery in patients with liver disease..
Hepatic Vein And Ivc Angioplasty
Hepatic vein and inferior vena cava (IVC) angioplasty are minimally invasive interventional radiology procedures used to treat narrowing or blockage of these blood vessels.The hepatic vein carries blood from the liver to the heart, while the IVC carries blood from the lower body to the heart. Narrowing or blockage of these veins can lead to a variety of symptoms, including liver dysfunction, abdominal pain, and swelling.During the angioplasty procedure, the interventional radiologist makes a small incision in the groin and inserts a thin, flexible tube called a catheter into the femoral vein. The catheter is then guided to the affected area using imaging guidance, such as X-ray or ultrasound.Once the catheter is in position, a small balloon at the end of the catheter is inflated to widen the narrowed or blocked area. In some cases, a stent (a small mesh tube) may be placed to help keep the vein open.After the procedure, patients may need to stay in the hospital for observation, but most can go home the same day or the day after. Recovery time is generally quick, and patients can typically resume normal activities within a few days.
