Splenorenal shunt

Splenorenal Shunt

A Splenorenal Shunt is a surgical procedure that creates a connection between the splenic vein and the renal vein. This procedure is primarily used to treat portal hypertension, a condition characterized by increased blood pressure within the portal venous system.

Procedure

The Splenorenal Shunt procedure involves the creation of a new pathway for blood flow from the spleen to the kidney. This is achieved by connecting the splenic vein to the renal vein, thereby bypassing the liver and reducing pressure in the portal vein.

Indications

The primary indication for a Splenorenal Shunt is portal hypertension, often secondary to cirrhosis. This condition can lead to serious complications such as esophageal varices, gastric varices, and ascites. The shunt can help alleviate these complications by reducing the pressure in the portal vein.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, a Splenorenal Shunt carries potential risks and complications. These may include infection, bleeding, thrombosis of the shunt, and renal failure. In some cases, the shunt may also lead to hepatic encephalopathy, a condition characterized by confusion and altered level of consciousness due to the liver's inability to remove toxins from the blood.

See Also

• Portal Hypertension
• Cirrhosis
• Esophageal Varices
• Gastric Varices
• Ascites
• Hepatic Encephalopathy