The role of the interventional radiologist. Transjugular procedures

The transjugular route provides a convenient and safe approach for the interventional radiologist to access the hepatic parenchyma and hepatic vascular structures. The transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt has revolutionized the management of the complications of portal hypertension, allowing the establishment of a side-to-side shunt without recourse to surgery and general anesthesia. On a smaller scale, the transjugular approach to obtaining a liver biopsy has also proven its worth in allowing the histologic diagnosis and staging of liver disease in patients in whom such information is required for appropriate management but major contraindications to percutaneous biopsy exist. This article reviews the current techniques, indications, and complications of these interventional procedures and their role in the management of patients with end-stage liver disease.