Peritoneovenous shunting for ascites
Reinhardt, G.F.; Stanley, M.M.
Surgery Gynecology and Obstetrics 145(3): 419-424
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0039-6087 PMID: 888064 Document Number: 124003
The peritoneovenous shunt of LeVeen can be safely performed under local anesthesia in patients with advanced cirrhosis and ascites. The results of the technique described have proved satisfactory in 25 diuretic resistant ascites in selected patients. The rapid, downhill course of the patient with severe hepatic encephalopathy or coma is probably unchanged by the presence of the valve. Eighteen surviving patients discharged with shunts in place are under continuing study.