Arterioportal Fistula Embolization

Endovascular closure of an abnormal communication between a hepatic artery and the portal vein.

Arterial Endovascular Surgery

Arterioportal Fistula Embolization

Synonyms : arterioportal fistula closure, arterioportal shunt embolization

Background and indications

An arterioportal fistula is an abnormal communication between the arterial and portal systems of the liver, which may occur after trauma, liver biopsy, or in association with a tumor. It can worsen portal hypertension.

Benefits

Minimally invasive fistula closure allowing portal flow normalization and portal hypertension symptom reduction.

Procedure

Under local anesthesia, a catheter is introduced via the femoral artery and guided to the hepatic artery feeding the fistula. Coils or glue are used to close the communication. The procedure lasts 1-2 hours.

Risks

Hepatic ischemia, embolization material migration, portal thrombosis.

Recovery and follow-up

One-night hospitalization. Follow-up Doppler at 1 month.

Practical information

Local anesthesia. Outpatient procedure (return home the same day).