The Liver Meeting 2024 - Debrief Sessions - Portuguese-Portal Hypertension Debrief Session

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Brett Fortune provided a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in portal hypertension at the 2024 ASLD meeting. Key topics included diagnostic and prediction models, variceal bleeding management, and new treatment strategies. Notable studies highlighted the effectiveness of three-dimensional MRI in predicting significant portal hypertension and introduced the "portal decompensation score" for better risk stratification. Metabolomics was discussed as a tool to predict hospitalizations in cirrhosis patients.<br /><br />The session also explored beta blocker efficacy, comparing different types and their influence on portal vein thrombosis, with mixed results. The use of splenic stiffness as a predictor of portal hypertension response in patients on beta blockers was explored, offering potential in noninvasive diagnostics. Moreover, management practices for variceal bleeding and fundal varices were examined, showing endovascular therapies like TIPS, or Berto, as more effective than traditional methods.<br /><br />Additional discussions covered the impact of alcohol use on post-TIPS outcomes and the role of cardiac function in cirrhosis management. Global healthcare disparities were addressed, emphasizing the need for systemic changes. The session concluded with insights into hepatic encephalopathy treatments and nascent therapies for hepatopulmonary syndrome, highlighting ongoing research and potential future directions.

Keywords

portal hypertension

variceal bleeding

three-dimensional MRI

beta blockers

splenic stiffness

TIPS

hepatic encephalopathy