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Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Procedure (TIPS)

The transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is a radiologic procedure in which a stent (a tubular device) is placed in the middle of the liver to reroute the blood flow.

During the procedure, a radiologist makes a tunnel through the liver with a needle, connecting the portal vein (the vein that carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver) to one

of the hepatic veins (the three veins that carry blood from the liver). A metal stent is placed in this tunnel to keep the track open.

The TIPS procedure is not a surgical procedure - the radiologist performs the procedure within the vessels in the X-ray room under X-ray guidance.
About Interventional Radiology

Interventional radiologists are board-certified physicians who specialize in minimally invasive, targeted treatments that have less risk, less pain and less recovery time compared to open surgery. They use their expertise in interpreting X-rays, ultrasound, MRI and other diagnostic imaging studies to understand, visualize and diagnose the full scope of the disease's pathology and to map out the procedure tailored to the individual patient. Then during the procedure, they image as they go to guide tiny instruments, such as catheters, through blood vessels or skin, to treat diseases at the site of the illness nonsurgically.

Interventional radiology is a recognized medical specialty by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Interventional radiologists complete preliminary training in Diagnostic Radiology and advanced training in Vascular and Interventional Radiology. The American Board of Radiology certifies their specialized training.