Study on the dynamic peri-operative changes of serum thyroid hormones levels in patients with portal hypertension

Objective: To study the peri-operative changes of thyroid hormones levels in patients with portal hypertension. Methods: Serum FT3, FT4, T3, T4, rT3 levels were determined with RIA in 51 patients with protal hypertension and dynamleally during the peri-operative period (spleneetomy+lower esophageal and proximal gastric devascularization) on d1, d7, d14 and d30 in 31 patients as well as in 51 controls. Results: As a whole, the serum FT3, FT4, T3, T4 levels were significantly lower than those in controls (P<0.01) with rT3 significantly higher: The changes were most marked in advanced eases. In the 31 operated patients, the FT3, FT4, T3, T4 levels droped further after operation and the levels gradually rose after 1wk, approaching pre-operative value by d 30. However, persistent low thyroid hormones levels were found in patients with complications. Conclusion: Thyroid homones (FT3, FT4, T3, T4) levels were decreased in patients with portal hypertension. Further decrease after operation usually was corrected about one month. Persistent low levels after operation might indicate development of complication. (authors)