Budd-Chiari Syndrome is a rare liver disorder in which blood flow out of the liver is obstructed. This happens when the hepatic veins (the vessels that drain blood from the liver) become blocked, causing pressure to build up inside the liver. Over time, that pressure can damage liver tissue and impair its function.
Early on, Budd-Chiari Syndrome may not cause noticeable problems. As pressure in the liver rises, you may experience:
Blockage of liver veins can result from several factors:
At GastroDoxs in Jersey Village, our multidisciplinary team specializes in the diagnosis and management of Budd-Chiari Syndrome-from advanced imaging and lab testing to tailored medical therapies and interventional procedures. We're committed to guiding you through every step of care with compassion and expertise. Don't wait to protect your liver health. Call us today at 832-632-4070 or visit our online booking portal to schedule your evaluation and start your personalized treatment plan.
We've successfully treated more than 1K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Diagnosis usually begins with a Doppler ultrasound to assess blood flow in the liver veins. Additional imaging such as CT or MRI scans and specialized blood tests may be used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of vein obstruction.
Life expectancy varies based on how early the condition is identified and treated. With prompt medical management-including anticoagulation, procedures to restore blood flow, and regular follow-up-many patients achieve good long-term outcomes.
The ICD-10 code for Budd-Chiari Syndrome is I82.0, which denotes thrombosis of hepatic veins.
While complete cure is not always possible, many patients experience significant improvement with treatment. Ongoing medical therapy and monitoring help control symptoms and prevent complications over time.
A low-sodium diet is often recommended to minimize fluid retention in the abdomen. Our team will work with you to develop a balanced meal plan that supports liver health and your overall treatment goals.
Follow-up frequency depends on your individual treatment plan and symptom severity. Typically, visits occur every few months, but your schedule may be adjusted based on clinical progress and any new concerns.
Not all patients require surgery. Many respond well to medications such as blood thinners and diuretics. Minimally invasive procedures-like angioplasty or stenting-may be offered if vein blockages persist. In severe cases, a TIPS procedure or liver transplant might be considered.
Recurrence is possible, especially if underlying risk factors remain unaddressed. Regular checkups, ongoing anticoagulation, and lifestyle measures help reduce the likelihood of the syndrome returning.
Some cases are linked to inherited blood-clotting disorders. We may recommend genetic or coagulation testing if your personal or family history suggests a hereditary risk.
If you experience abdominal pain, swelling, unexplained weight changes, or yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), seek evaluation by a liver specialist promptly. Early detection and treatment are key to better outcomes.
