Dr. Ziv Haskal is an interventional radiologist and professor at UVA.
Last week, the University of Virginia Department of Radiology & Medical Imaging witnessed a big step for a novel investigational implant that aims to relieve portal hypertension symptoms.
On August 10, Dr. Ziv Haskal, M.D., Professor of Radiology & Medical Imaging, enrolled the first patient in a clinical study assessing the investigational BD Liverty™ Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) Stent Graft.
Dr. Haskal is the global principal investigator for the study, which will include 175 patients across the United States and Europe.
Portal hypertension, which can be caused by the liver disease cirrhosis, is increased pressure within the veins that drain the liver due to the damaged organ. Symptoms can include bleeding from veins in the esophagus and a buildup of fluid in the abdomen or chest. In an effort to reduce portal hypertension, the interventional therapy of creating a shunt can reroute circulation away from the damaged liver.
In a BD press release, Dr. Haskal said that the BD Liverty™ TIPS Stent Graft offers increased control and adaptability, while reducing risks of certain complications like encephalopathy and overshunting.
“With this investigational device, our hope is we will be able to improve the care and quality of life of patients with portal hypertension,” he said.
Read the full BD press release here.
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