Encephalopathy and Portacaval Anastomosis

Abstract

Kardel, T., Lund, Y., Zander Olsen, P., Möllgaard, V. & Gammeltoft, A. 1970. Encephalopathy and Portacaval Anastomosis. Scand. J. Gastroent. 5, 681-685.

Neurological, psychological, and EEG examinations and liver function tests were performed in 34 patients before and after portacaval shunt. Slight deteriorations compared to already markedly abnormal findings were generally noted. EEG changes and deteriorated liver function tests were correlated, but not EEG changes and psychological impairment. Preoperative psychological impairment was related to age. Postoperative deterioration was not related to age. Work inability after operation was commoner in those with physical than in those with intellectual occupations.

Key-words::

• Electroencephalography
• liver cirrhosis
• neurologic manifestations
• portacaval anastomosis
• psychology, clinical