Budd-Chiari syndrome is a rare disorder characterized by obstruction of the veins of the liver that carry the blood flow from the liver. When the blood flow out of the liver is impeded, blood backs up in the liver, causing it to enlarge (hepatomegaly). The spleen may also enlarge ...

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The treatment of Budd-Chiari syndrome varies, depending on the cause of the blockage. Medical treatments may include:

• Blood-thinning (anticoagulation) medications
• Clot-busting drugs (thrombolytic treatment)
• Treatment for the liver disease, including ascites

Surgical treatments may also be considered and include:

• Angioplasty and stent placement
• Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS)
• Venous shunt surgery

While medical therapy can be instituted for short-term, symptomatic benefit, medical therapy alone has been associated with a high 2-year mortality rate (80-85%).

In cases of severe cirrhosis liver transplant may be needed. You can view more detailed information regarding the medical and surgical options for treatment of Budd-Chiari syndrome by visiting the Medscape Reference website on Budd-Chiari syndrome treatment & managment. You may need to register to view the article, but registration is free.