An observation with 99mTc dynamic scintigraphy on effects of TIPS in combination with modified Sugiura procedure on portal circulation and portasystemic shunt in patients with portal hypertension

Objective To investigate the effects of TIPS in combination with modified Sugiura procedure on portal circulation and portasystemic shunt in patients with hypertension. Methods Before and after the operation, the 99mTc dynamic scintigraphy and direct measurement of the portal venous pressure were performed in 14 patients with portal hypertension. Results The initiative developing time of liver and portal vein was significantly brought forward after TIPS in combination with modified Sugiura procedure. The shunt index (SI) markedly decreased after TIPS alone. After the modified Sugiura procedure alone, the portal pressure decreased while SI remained the same. The average slope of hepatic time-radioactivity curves increased. Conclusion The effects of TIPS in combination with modified Sugiura procedure on portal circulation and portasystemic shunt are beneficial. This combined protocol can reliably enhance the clinical therapeutic efficacy on portal hypertension.