A Retrospective Cohort Study : Efficacy and Safety of Variceal Embolization Combined With Partial Splenic Artery Embolization in the Treatment of Variceal Bleeding in Cavernous Transformation of Portal Vein.
The management of variceal bleeding in patients with cavernous transformation of portal vein (CTPV) generally adheres to the principles applied to cirrhotic portal hypertension, including pharmacological therapy, endoscopic intervention, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS), and surgery. However, the distinct hemodynamic profile caused by portal vein occlusion in CTPV introduces specific therapeutic challenges: 1. Conventional pharmacological and endoscopic treatments often yield suboptimal outcomes. 2. Splenectomy with periesophagogastric devascularization is associated with significant complication rates and elevated perioperative mortality. 3. The feasibility of TIPS depends on sufficient portal venous inflow to ensure stent patency, while also carrying a risk of hepatic encephalopathy. Based on these considerations, the investigators hypothesize that for patients with extensive portal thrombosis and inadequate portal inflow who are ineligible for TIPS, a combination of variceal embolization and partial splenic artery embolization may reduce portal pressure and decrease the risk of esophagogastric variceal bleeding. To evaluate this hypothesis, a retrospective cohort study has been designed.
• Age 18-75 years;
• Diagnosis of cavernous transformation of the portal vein (CTPV) confirmed by at least one imaging modality (ultrasonography, CT, or MRI);
• Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) extending to the splenic vein (SV) and superior mesenteric vein (SMV);
• History of portal hypertension complicated by variceal bleeding, with recurrent bleeding despite pharmacological and endoscopic therapies;
• Treated with combined variceal embolization and partial splenic artery embolization;
• Availability of at least one postoperative follow-up examination with documented clinical data and survival status.