A porto-systemic shunt in Cuenca is an advanced surgical procedure designed to reduce portal hypertension in patients with liver cirrhosis or other hepatic diseases. By creating an alternate blood flow channel, this treatment prevents esophageal variceal bleeding and refractory ascites.
What the Procedure Involves
Using minimally invasive surgery, the portal vein is connected to a systemic vein (usually the inferior vena cava), diverting excess pressure. Dr. Luis Flores employs high-definition intraoperative imaging and 3D planning to ensure precise shunt placement .
Benefits for Cuenca Patients
- Reduced variceal bleeding: lowers the risk of life-threatening hemorrhages.
- Ascites control: alleviates fluid buildup in the abdomen.
- Faster recovery: smaller incisions and less postoperative pain.
- Specialized local care: continuous follow-up in Cuenca ensures comprehensive management.
Read patient stories on our testimonials page.
Recommended External Resources
- International Liver Foundation: Guidelines for TIPS Procedures
- NCBI study on shunt outcomes: TIPS outcomes study
Porto-Systemic Shunt in Cuenca: Effective Relief from Portal Hypertension
A porto-systemic shunt in Cuenca is an advanced surgical procedure designed to reduce portal hypertension in patients with liver cirrhosis or other chronic hepatic diseases. By creating an alternate channel for blood flow between the portal and systemic venous systems, this treatment prevents life-threatening complications—such as esophageal variceal bleeding and refractory ascites—and substantially improves quality of life.
What the Procedure Involves
Using minimally invasive techniques, the surgeon creates a connection (shunt) between the portal vein and a systemic vein (usually the inferior vena cava). Dr. Luis Flores employs:
- High-definition laparoscopic imaging to visualize anatomy in real-time.
- 3D preoperative planning from CT/MRI scans to map vascular structures with precision.
- Advanced vessel-sealing devices to ensure hemostasis and reduce bleeding risk.
The procedure typically takes 2–4 hours under general anesthesia.
Indications and Patient Selection
Patients considered for a porto-systemic shunt in Cuenca generally have:
- Recurrent variceal hemorrhage despite endoscopic therapy.
- Ascites that is unresponsive to diuretics.
- Preserved liver function (Child–Pugh class A or B).
A comprehensive evaluation—including liver function tests, endoscopy, and Doppler ultrasound—is performed in Dr. Flores’ clinic. Learn more about our diagnostic workflow on the digestive surgery procedures page.
Benefits for Cuenca Patients
- Significant reduction in portal pressure: Lowers risk of variceal bleeding by up to 70%.
- Rapid symptom relief: Many experience improved abdominal comfort and appetite within days.
- Shorter hospital stay: Average discharge at 3–5 days vs. 7–10 days for open surgery.
- Local, continuous care: Dr. Flores provides follow-up at his centrally located Cuenca clinic, ensuring any complications are caught early. Read patient experiences on our testimonials page.
Postoperative Care and Recovery
- Early mobilization: Patients begin gentle walking within 24 hours to prevent complications.
- Nutritional support: Tailored diet plans to support liver regeneration.
- Regular imaging: Doppler ultrasounds at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months to confirm shunt patency.
Most patients return to normal activities within 2–3 weeks.
Recommended External Resources
- International Liver Foundation guidelines: IHPBA Guidelines
- Study on TIPS outcomes: NCBI TIPS Outcomes Study
- ERAS protocols for hepatic surgery: ERAS Society
Why Choose Cuenca?
Cuenca’s combination of modern hospital infrastructure, clean mountain air, and tranquil environment promotes faster healing and reduced postoperative stress. Dr. Flores’ clinic—centrally located near major transport routes—ensures easy access for patients from all over the region.
