Embolization of an intrahepatic arterioportal fistula: case report and review of the literature.

An intrahepatic arterioportal fistula causing portal hypertension was successfully palliated with steel coils. The patient remains well 2 1/2 years after embolization. The 13 previously reported cases of transcatheter embolization of large intrahepatic arterioportal fistulae are reviewed. Percutaneous transcatheter embolization with suitable embolic material should be preferred to surgery in the treatment of these fistulae.