Purpose: To report our data demonstrating that all type 1 Abernathy syndrome are actually type 2 when direct angiographic maneuvers are used, thus sparing them from liver transplantation
Material and methods: During 15 years, 8 children with Abernathy syndrome underwent angiographic interventions to close the congenital shunt. Of them, 7 were considered as Abernathy type 1. Angiography performed while obstructing the shunt to detect remnant portal system was performed. The shunt was gradually occluded by serial sessions.
Results: In all 7 patients that went 2 gradual shunt closures with stents and coils untill complete shunt occlusion a normal portal system was developed with return of ammonia levels to normal without need for liver transplantation.
Conclusions: In all Abernathy syndrome patients the portal system exists and can return to normal after serial percutaneous procedures thus there is only one type of Abernathy syndrome- all are treatable percutaneously.
