Imaging of the portal vein during transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt procedures: a comparison of carbon dioxide and iodinated contrast.

We report our experience with wedged hepatic injections of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the imaging of the portal vein during transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedures. In all patients CO2 allowed quick and effective visualization of the portal vein. The image quality and extent of visualization of the portal vein was considered superior to iodinated contrast media in all cases. We suggest that CO2 should be used more frequently during TIPS.