Improved quality of life for malignant ascites patients by Denver peritoneovenous shunts.

BACKGROUND

Intractable ascites secondary to malignant disease deteriorates the patients' quality of life.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Thirty-three patients, who had undergone Denver peritoneovenous shunt for the treatment of ascites associated with malignant tumor from May 1998 to February 2004, were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Post-operative complications had occurred in twelve patients, including disseminated intravascular coagulation in eight, pulmonary edema in three and wound hematoma in one. The patients' post-operative mean survival was 54.5 days with occlusion occurring in four (12.1%). Comparison of pre- and postoperative values showed a significant decrease of body weight and abdominal girth. Thirteen patients needed no post-operative therapy for ascites, whereas 17 patients could tentatively remain at home or be discharged.

CONCLUSION

The Denver shunt for malignant ascites is useful in improving quality of life, if indications are selected properly. Further experience and discussion are necessary to establish the patient selection criteria.