Portal Shunting

                        ---------------

                      General Information



Portal shunting is an abnormality of the blood vessels of the

liver (portal system) that causes some or all of the blood from

the intestines to be shunted around (by-pass) the liver and go

directly into the general circulation.  A very serious

consequence of portal shunting is the increase in blood ammonia

levels after eating.  Build-up of blood ammonia seriously impairs

brain function and may cause seizures, coma and death.  Portal

shunts can be present at birth (congenital) or develop later in

life (acquired).  In all cases, however, portal shunting is a

serious disorder.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Portal shunting is treated surgically and/or medically.  For

    surgery to be beneficial, the shunt must be in an operable

    location.  Often shunts cannot be reached.  While some pets

    have lived for several years with portal shunts, the

    condition is usually terminal when surgery is not possible. 



2.  Portal shunting is a very complicated disease, and diagnosis

    and treatment involve extensive laboratory tests.  Highly

    specialized x-ray techniques use dyes that are visible on

    radiographs (x-rays) to find the shunts.  Many animals are

    referred to specialists for treatment. 



3.  Diet:  Dietary therapy is the most important aspect of home

    treatment for portal shunts.  Follow the instructions

    checked. 



    ____Feed Prescription Diet u/d. 



    ____Feed the normal diet. 



    ____Other: 





    ____Feed the above diet as follows:





4.  Medication:  Give the medication as directed.  Call the

    doctor if you cannot medicate your pet.



5.  Activity:  Restrict your pet's activity to short, on-leash

    walks to eliminate.  Do not increase exercise levels without

    talking with the doctor.



       Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your pet's signs worsen, or new signs appear.



    * Your pet has seizures (convulsions).



    * Your pet refuses to eat the recommended diet.