Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS): indications and long-term patency.

TIPS is a major treatment modality to manage the complications of portal hypertension and Budd-Chiari syndrome. The available data indicate that TIPS is not only a short-term treatment option but may provide long-term portosystemic decompression. Technical improvements, e.g. the use of covered or drug-eluting stents, are essential to reduce the high rate of shunt dysfunction.