[Early complications and long-term results of the LeVeen peritoneo-venous shunt in the treatment of refractory ascites].

Results concerning 14 cirrhotic patients who underwent LeVeen peritoneo-venous shunt for refractory or complicated ascites are discussed. The most relevant early complications regard coagulation disorders (35.7%) with a 14.3% postoperative mortality. The functional result appears largely satisfactory, also in terms of long-term efficiency. Utility of a wide evacuation of ascitic fluid during the operation is underlined. Ascites drainage at operation doesn't compromise shunt function or renal resumption, furthermore it may prevent some life-threatening complications like DIC, esophageal varices rupture and congestive heart failure.