Drainage of ascites in cirrhosis

Abstract

For cirrhotic refractory ascites, diuretics combined with albumin and vasoactive drugs are the first-line choice for ascites management. However, their therapeutic effects are limited, and most refractory ascites do not respond to medication treatment, necessitating consideration of drainage or surgical interventions. Consequently, numerous drainage methods for cirrhotic ascites have emerged, including large-volume paracentesis, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt, peritoneovenous shunt, automated low-flow ascites pump, cell-free and concentrated ascites reinfusion therapy, and peritoneal catheter drainage. This review introduces the advantages and disadvantages of these methods in different aspects, as well as indications and contraindications for this disease.

Keywords: Automated low-flow ascites pump; Cell-free and concentrated ascites reinfusion therapy; Large-volume paracentesis; Liver cirrhosis ascites; Peritoneal catheter drainage; Peritoneovenous shunt; Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt.