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Updated: Jul 2, 2026

Echocardiographic Assessment Using Subxiphoid-Only Examination for Hypotensive Patients
Published on: April 18, 2025
[Ascites]
1Leberzentrum, Klinikum Esslingen, Akademisches Lehrkrankenhaus der Universität Tübingen. kp.maier@kliniken-es.de
Abstract:
Ascites means accumulation of fluid within the peritoneal cavity, usually in patients with cirrhosis. Diagnostic paracentesis (cell count, albumin, cell culture) is a must. Na-restriction remains the cornerstone of treatment (< 3 g NaCl/d). Spironolactone is the drug of choice, in some patients in addition with proximally acting diuretics. Minimum effective dosage is recommented to reduce side-effects. Pronounced ascites can be treated by large-volume paracentesis with concomitant albumin-infusion. Only very few patients suffer from refractory ascites. TIPS is a treatment modality for this group. However, TIPS may precipitate PSE in some patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis.
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