[Interventional radiology techniques in the treatment of Budd-Chiari syndrome]

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is rare clinical state characterized by the stenosis or complete obstruction of hepatic veins. Currently interventional radiology techniques are more frequently used as a single method of treatment or as a bridge to liver transplantation. This paper presents current interventional radiology techniques used in BCS treatment. Depending on etiology of BCS two major techniques are used: transjugular intrahepatic portocaval shunts (TIPS) or percutaneous angioplasties of stenosed hepatic veins. We also present selected cases of BCS diagnosed and treated in our Department in years 1999-2003.