[Topography and surgico-tactical principles of the mesocaval shunt]

The mesocaval shunt has special advantages. It can be applied also in patient with worse condition (Child B and C). The technically simple performance according to the original method of Drapanas is recommended provided that anatomical variants at the surgical trunk of the vena mesenterica superior are known. The anatomical situation should be investigated preoperatively by direct (umbilical vein catheter) or indirect mesentericography. The access via umbilical vein offers in addition the possibility of coronary vein embolisation in emergency patients.