Yes, that is exactly the issue. It was to increase my platelets and reduce the size of my "enormous" spleen. It did neither. It caused more unexpected issues than they have experienced in the past with the SAE and are baffled. On January 21st I have my next hepatology appt to see if TIPS is the next step. I just need to chat with someone who has had the SAE and see what they experienced.

I'm having trust issues with my hep team which is adding to the anxiety. Stick with the team I have (Banner) or try another hospital for a second opinion (return to the Mayo AZ)? TIPS being a one way street isn't something I want unless it has to be done but I need confidence in the doctors which I don't have. I'd go back to the Mayo in a minute if someone in billing/insurance would give straight answers instead of cut and pasting then marking the portal message as not able to reply to them. This isn't helping the anxiety either!

Thanks for replying Colleen...the only update is the fluid retention has gone from ascites to lower extremity edema. The Furosemide seems to have stopped working so now I'm self medicating with Torsemide. GI's don't want to get involved if TIPS is coming as it is interference so I'm pretty much on my own if I can some get answers on the 21st.