Hepatic vein stenting is a medical procedure that involves the placement of a stent in the hepatic vein to treat a condition known as hepatic vein obstruction or Budd-Chiari syndrome. Budd-Chiari syndrome is a rare condition that occurs when the hepatic vein, which carries blood from the liver to the heart, becomes blocked or narrowed, leading to liver damage or failure.
During the procedure, a healthcare provider inserts a thin, flexible tube called a catheter through a small incision in the groin and guides it up to the hepatic vein using X-ray guidance. Once the catheter is in place, a small balloon is inflated to widen the narrowed or blocked area, and a stent is inserted to keep the vein open.
Hepatic vein stenting is considered a minimally invasive procedure, which means it can be performed with less pain, scarring, and recovery time compared to traditional surgery. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia or conscious sedation and may require an overnight hospital stay for monitoring.
Hepatic vein stenting has been shown to be effective in improving liver function and reducing symptoms associated with hepatic vein obstruction, such as abdominal pain, swelling, and ascites. However, as with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications, such as bleeding, infection, stent migration or blockage, or damage to nearby organs. The decision to undergo hepatic vein stenting should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, taking into consideration the severity of the hepatic vein obstruction, the patient’s overall health, and their individual treatment goals.