[Mesenteric-caval anastomosis using an interposed dacron graft. Apropos of 5 cases]

Five meso-caval shunts with the use of dacron prostheses are reported in the adult. Any other type of portocaval decompression was impossible in 2 cases (splenoportal thrombosis) but this procedure was elected in 3 cases (2 Budd Chiari syndromes, 1 cirrhosis with perihepatitis). This operation proved to be technically simple and satisfactory. A cirrhotic patient died 5 days later, because of acute hepatic necrosis, the four others cases being followed by a smooth postoperative course with a favorable effect on hemorrhage and/or ascites. Thrombosis of the graft was not observed (3 angiographic controls, 2 clinically obvious patencies). The follow-up is too short (maximum one year) to extend the indications of this appealing technical procedure.