The decision-making around transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPSS) placement in the management of patients with chronic liver disease and portal hypertension (PH) is a regular challenge for hepatologists. In the UK, access has improved, with more than 35 hospitals now offering this service. However, its role in acute variceal bleeding, refractory ascites and other complications of PH continues to be redefined and expanded. In particular, the role of pre-emptive TIPSS has become more established and requires re-evaluation of pathways to enable equitable access for patients. Here, we summarise the key recommendations from the recently published British Society of Gastroenterology guidelines and expand on the challenges posed.
Keywords: ASCITES; GASTROINTESTINAL BLEEDING; LIVER CIRRHOSIS; OESOPHAGEAL VARICES; PORTAL HYPERTENSION.
© Author(s) (or their employer(s)) 2022. No commercial re-use. See rights and permissions. Published by BMJ.