Hepatology
TIPS (Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt)
TIPS (Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt) is a minimally invasive, image-guided procedure used to treat portal hypertension (varices and ascites), refractory and malignant ascites.
Devices used in TIPS
Alternatives to TIPS
- Paracentesis
- Tunneled Peritoneal Catheter (PleurX) Placement
- Endoscopic banding or glue injection
- Beta blockers
- Liver transplant
- Diuretics and salt restriction
- Treating the underlying cause
How much does TIPS cost?
Medicare national averages for CPT 37182 (Procedure to reroute blood flow away from the liver's portal vein). The total bill has two parts: the professional fee paid to the physician, and the facility (technical) fee paid to the hospital or surgery center for the room, staff, equipment and supplies.
| Where it's done | Physician (professional) | Facility (technical) |
|---|---|---|
| Hospital outpatient department | $705 | $18,729 (OPPS) |
| Ambulatory surgery center (ASC) | $705 | $13,284 |
| Office-based lab (OBL) | $705 (one "global" payment that covers the physician and the office's supplies, equipment and staff) | |
Medicare physician fee schedule and hospital outpatient/ASC payment rates, national averages before geographic adjustment. Private insurance usually pays more; your share depends on your plan's deductible and coinsurance. Inpatient stays are paid differently (by DRG).
Related reading and technique references
This page is for education and does not replace advice from your doctor. Device information comes from the FDA's public databases and from manufacturers.