Any positive experiences with TIPSS

[Crooktele79]

I am 42 years old in the US and have had my NASH cirrhosis diagnosis for 5 years. I was compensated until early this year when I developed Ascites.After some hard work with diet and exercise I have managed to improve my labs and MELD score greatly. Began the summer at a MELD 26 and am currently at an 11. Needless to say I no longer qualify for transplant at this time.

my dilemma is that I am requiring a fluid draw every 10-14 days and am unable to take an effective dosage of diuretics due to low serum sodium levels. I have a consult for TIPSS tomorrow and would like to here some feedback from those who have had the procedure. I have no HE symptoms and realize that is a risk, but are they debilitating to the point I would not be able to drive, work, enjoy life etc. Also, is it effective in Ascites reduction? Is it something that could buy me a few years? I try to stay away from the internet other than this forum because everything seems like a death nail going by what is published online.

[Crooktele79]

anyone?? Nobody out there has any thoughts or experiences with TIPSS?

[AyrshireK in reply to Crooktele79]

No personal experience of TIPSS procedure (other than seeing other patients having one during hubbies hospital stays) but from my understanding it is usually very effective in reducing the need for regular ascites drains.

But one drawback is the potential risk of developing Hepatic Encephalopathy. HE can be treated by use of lactulose and Rifaximin but here in the UK this often means being told not to drive. Ad you are in USA you would need to check your driver licence regulations and your driving insurance.

Have a good and thorough discussion re. pros and cons before making your decision.

Katie

[Kenny_]

hi, I was draining every 3 weeks & just had tips procedure 2 weeks ago. It’s definitely working & I have no HE. I’m glad I had it done