[Orthotopic liver transplantation in case of TIPS stent dislocation]

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) are indicated in patients with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension for treatment of variceal bleeding or refractory ascites. Additionally implantation of stents may lead to stent dislocation or thrombosis in up to 20 % of cases. Detailed information about stent dislocation and its impact on subsequent orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) is rare regarding the literature. We report on a patient suffering from ethyltoxic liver cirrhosis in which OLT was technically complicated by a thrombosed TIPS stent, dislocated in the portal vein. This stent was implanted prior to OLT due to refractory ascites and partial portal vein thrombosis. We conclude that TIPS stent insertion, especially in liver transplant candidates, should only be performed by radiologists in centers with expertise and experience.