Advancements in Interventional Radiology for Managing Hepatic Encephalopathy: A Comprehensive Review

Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a complex neuropsychiatric syndrome resulting from liver dysfunction, leading to cognitive, behavioral, and motor impairments. The management of HE has traditionally relied on pharmacological treatments, dietary modifications, and liver transplantation. However, recent advancements in interventional radiology (IR) have introduced minimally invasive procedures that offer promising alternatives. This comprehensive review explores the latest IR techniques, including transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS), balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration (BRTO), portal vein embolization (PVE), and Yttrium-90 (Y90) radioembolization. The efficacy, clinical outcomes, and potential complications of these techniques are examined through an analysis of current studies and trials. The review highlights the benefits of IR in reducing portal hypertension and improving hepatic blood flow, ultimately alleviating HE symptoms. Additionally, it underscores the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration, ongoing research, and the development of clear patient selection criteria to optimize the use of IR in HE management. By integrating these advancements into clinical practice, healthcare providers can enhance the quality of care and improve outcomes for patients with HE.