Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Reduction Techniques

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation treats complications of portal hypertension in appropriately selected patients by lowering the portal venous pressure. While this can be a lifesaving intervention, portal venous flow diversion is not without potential consequences. Overshunting can lead to hepatic decompensation and encephalopathy. TIPS reduction and TIPS occlusion are therapeutic options used to mitigate overshunting, with reduction being the initial alternative due to retained shunt patency and lower potential for venous thrombosis. Patient selection, techniques for TIPS reduction, and patient outcomes are reviewed in this article.