Intrahepatic arterioportal fistula and its treatment with detachable balloon and transcatheter embolization with coils and microspheres

Background Although intrahepatic arterioportal fistula (APF) due to acquired or congenital causes are infrequent, they are listed among the causes of portal hypertension. Purpose The aim of this study was to present the results of intrahepatic APF treatment with embolotherapy in six cases. Material and methods Transarterial detachable balloon and coil embolization was used on six consecutive cases with traumatic intrahepatic APF from 1989 to 2003. Six-month follow-up angiography was obtained in every case. Results Successful disconnection of hepatic arterial and portal system was achieved in five cases. At least symptomatic improvement was achieved in one. Conclusion Transcatheter embolization may be the first line of treatment for intrahepatic APF.