An experience with a LeVeen ascites shunt
J. Holcroft, H. Y. Kressel, R. Prager, D. Trunkey and R. P. Jacobs
A patient with intractable ascites was treated by placement of the LeVeen
peritoneovenous shunt. Shunt failure was caused by malpositioning of the
venous limb in the inferior vena cava. This was demonstrated by injection
of water-soluble contrast material into the venous limb. Revision of the
shunt led to diuresis, weight loss, and reduction of ascites. The
physiologic process of the LeVeen shunt is reviewed and we suggest
placement of a radiopaque marker into the tubing.
