Scorpion Portal Vein Access Utilizing ICE Imaging: A Novel Case of Creating a TIPS Shunt Utilizing a Steerable Needle and US Guided Access System

Case study describing the novel use of a steerable needle and cannula system under intravascular ultrasound guidence to create a shunt in a hepatic compromised patient with portal hypertension where traditional access attempts via transjugular access have failed. This is the first case described using new needle technology designed for intra parenchymal steering of a portal vein access system within the hepatic anatomy to create a succesful portal to hepatic venous shunt and reduce patient portal hypertension.

Utilizing the Scorpion X™ portal vein access system in conjunction with ICE imaging, successful hepatic to portal access was obtained in less than 5 minutes in a patient where a prior attempt to establish portal to hepatic shunting had failed.