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What is the main complication associated with TIPS (Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt) procedures, which involve the placement of a stent to shunt blood away from the portal vein into the hepatic vein? a) Budd-Chiari syndrome b) Esophageal varices c) Thrombosis d) Encephalopathy

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Final answer:

The main complication associated with TIPS procedures is encephalopathy, which refers to brain dysfunction. TIPS procedures can lead to the development of hepatic encephalopathy due to the shunting of blood away from the liver. d) Encephalopathy is a serious complication that requires medical management.

Step-by-step explanation:

The main complication associated with TIPS (Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt) procedures is d) Encephalopathy. Encephalopathy refers to a condition characterized by brain dysfunction. TIPS procedures can lead to the development of hepatic encephalopathy due to the shunting of blood away from the liver, which can impair the liver's ability to remove toxins from the blood.

When blood is rerouted through the TIPS procedure, it bypasses the liver's natural filtration process, allowing toxins to accumulate in the bloodstream. These toxins can then affect the brain, leading to symptoms such as confusion, forgetfulness, personality changes, and even coma.

Encephalopathy is a serious complication of TIPS procedures and typically requires medical management and follow-up care to monitor and treat the condition.

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