Repetitive transarterial chemoembolization (rTACE) of hepatocellular carcinoma: comparisons between an arterial port system and conventional angiographic technique.

Purpose: To compare the cost and radiation exposure of repetitive transarterial chemoembolization (rTACE) using percutaneously implantable port system with rTACE using conventional catheterization technique.

Materials And Methods: In five patients with unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma, three cycles of TACE were performed using conventional technique and six cycles using port. The cumulative cost of material and contrast agent and dose area product (DAP) were compared with the cost and DAP that would be expected if the rTACE was performed conventionally.

Placement of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt via the left hepatic vein under sonographic guidance in a patient with right hemihepatectomy.

In a patient with refractory ascites after right hemihepatectomy TIPS was created between the left hepatic vein and the left portal vein via a transjugular approach. The puncture was guided only by sonography from the epigastrium. Portosystemic pressure gradient was reduced from 28 to 7 mm Hg and ascites disappeared.