Percutaneous Transhepatic Embolization of Ectopic Varices in a Patient With Portal Hypertension Presenting With Hemorrhagic Shock

Varices secondary to portal hypertension in the setting of liver cirrhosis typically occur in the gastroesophageal region. Management guidelines for bleeding gastroesophageal varices are well established in the literature. Ectopic varices that occur outside of this typical location are an uncommon complication of portal hypertension. Rarely, these varices can result in life-threatening hemorrhage. Management guidelines of ectopic variceal bleeds are not yet standardized as cases are rare and treatment approach in the literature has historically varied. We present an interesting case of a 37-year-old patient with alcoholic liver disease and cirrhosis who developed spontaneous hemorrhage and shock from bleeding ectopic varices. This report exemplifies how coil embolization via a percutaneous transhepatic approach can be used to manage ectopic variceal bleeds in the setting of hemorrhagic shock.