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Budd-Chiarai Syndrome
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott specializes in diagnosing and treating Budd-Chiari syndrome. With advanced imaging, personalized care plans and minimally invasive therapies, he helps patients manage symptoms, improve liver function and prevent complications. Early intervention can safeguard your health.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
What Is Budd-Chiari Syndrome?
Budd-Chiari syndrome is a rare disorder in which blood flow out of the liver is blocked. This back-up of blood causes liver enlargement, pain, swelling and, if untreated, can lead to serious liver damage.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Blood-clotting disorders (thrombophilia)
Myeloproliferative diseases (overproduction of blood cells)
Hormonal therapies (e.g., birth control pills)
Pregnancy and the postpartum period
Tumors or infections pressing on hepatic veins
Signs and Symptoms
Pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen
Abdominal swelling or bloating (ascites)
Rapid, unexplained weight gain
Swelling of legs and ankles
Jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
Fatigue, nausea or general malaise
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He asks about your symptoms (including epigastric or right upper-quadrant pain), past medical history, hormone use, and any risk factors for blood clots or liver disease.
Doppler Ultrasound
This non-invasive study evaluates blood flow in the hepatic and inferior vena cava veins to detect obstruction.
CT or MRI Scans
Cross-sectional imaging provides detailed views of liver anatomy, identifies venous blockages, collateral vessels, or underlying masses.
Blood Tests
We check liver enzymes, bilirubin, and clotting panels-and screen for thrombophilia or other hypercoagulable conditions.
Venography (if needed)
When non-invasive tests are inconclusive, a contrast dye study pinpoints the exact location and severity of the venous blockage.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for Budd-Chiari Syndrome.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Adjustments
Reduce salt intake to help control abdominal and leg swelling
Maintain a balanced, protein‐rich diet to support liver function
Avoid alcohol and tobacco to prevent further liver damage
Stay active and achieve a healthy weight through regular exercise
2. Medications
Anticoagulants (eg, warfarin or heparin) to prevent and treat blood clots
Beta-blockers to lower pressure in the liver's blood vessels
Diuretics to reduce fluid buildup and relieve swelling
Additional symptom-relief medications for pain or nausea as needed
3. Minimally Invasive or Surgical Procedures
Angioplasty with stent placement to open blocked hepatic veins
Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) to improve blood flow
Surgical shunts or advanced rerouting procedures for severe cases
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes Budd-Chiari syndrome?
The condition develops when a blood clot or other obstruction blocks the hepatic veins, preventing blood from leaving the liver. Risk factors include clotting disorders (thrombophilia), blood‐cell overproduction disorders, hormone therapies (e.g., birth control), pregnancy, tumors, and infections.
Can Budd-Chiari syndrome be cured?
Early intervention can lead to substantial improvement and, in some cases, long-term remission. Others may require ongoing therapy-medications or procedures-to manage symptoms and protect liver function.
What are the main symptoms?
Symptoms range from mild to severe and may include pain in the upper right abdomen, abdominal swelling (ascites), leg or ankle swelling, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), fatigue, nausea, and unexplained weight changes.
What medications are used to treat it?
Doctors typically prescribe anticoagulants such as heparin or warfarin to prevent clot extension. They may also use diuretics to reduce fluid buildup, beta-blockers to lower portal pressure, and analgesics for pain relief.
Are there surgical options?
Yes. If medications alone aren't sufficient, minimally invasive procedures like angioplasty with stent placement or TIPS (transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt) can restore blood flow. In complex cases, surgical shunts or bypass grafts may be necessary.
When should I seek medical help?
If you experience persistent right-sided abdominal pain, swelling, jaundice, or have known clotting risk factors, seek prompt medical evaluation to prevent complications.
Is this treatment covered by insurance?
Most insurance plans cover diagnostic imaging, lab tests, medications, and procedures for Budd-Chiari syndrome. The GastroDoxs team will assist you with insurance verification, pre-authorizations, and billing questions.
