BD Launches Next-Generation TIPS Technology for Enhanced Portal Hypertension Treatment in the EU

Introduction

BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company), a global leader in medical technology, has recently made headlines with its application for the CE mark for the Liverty™ Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) stent. This initiative is set to enhance treatment for patients suffering from portal hypertension, a serious condition often arising from liver cirrhosis.

Background on Portal Hypertension

Portal hypertension is a condition arising from increased blood pressure in the portal venous system, primarily due to liver cirrhosis. This health challenge affects around 58 million people worldwide, as reported in the Global Burden of Disease study. Complications can lead to life-threatening issues such as variceal bleeding and fluid accumulation in the abdomen or chest.

The Liverty™ TIPS Stent

The Liverty™ TIPS stent is designed to offer flexibility and a personalized approach to treatment. It features an adjustable internal diameter ranging from 6 mm to 10 mm, and it is available in various lengths to accommodate individual patient needs. Key elements of the stent include its nitinol structure that is both flexible and self-expandable and a double-layer ePTFE encapsulation that enhances its effectiveness.

Clinical Data

The pivotal ARCH clinical trial, which evaluates the safety and efficacy of the Liverty™ TIPS stent, is set to present its findings at the Annual Scientific Meeting of the Society of Interventional Radiology (SIR) on April 12, 2026. This trial marks a significant step as it provides the first prospective data on small-diameter TIPS interventions addressed to treat all major complications of portal hypertension. The primary researcher of the trial, Professor Ziv Haskal, has expressed optimism about these groundbreaking results.

Importance of Accessibility

Rima Alameddine, Global President of Peripheral Intervention at BD, emphasized the necessity for safe, effective, and adaptable treatment options for patients coping with the complexities of portal hypertension. The introduction of Liverty™ is a pioneering step aimed at personalizing therapy and improving long-term outcomes for patients.

Conclusion

BD’s latest innovation in TIPS technology not only advances treatment possibilities but also enhances the care framework for patients with advanced liver disease. With a commitment to empowering healthcare professionals through innovative solutions, BD continues to strive for a healthier future. As the company prepares for the upcoming SIR meeting, anticipation builds around the results from the ARCH trial and the impact they will have on future treatments for portal hypertension.

For further details about BD and the Liverty™ TIPS stent, visit BD's official website or connect via LinkedIn.