Patient Stories: A Rare Condition Gets Treatment at RIA Endovascular

Patient Sarah H. shares her story.

I was diagnosed with Budd-Chiari syndrome, which is a very rare liver disorder. Fortunately, I had not yet experienced symptoms, which can be quite alarming.

I was referred to RIA Endovascular through my diagnosing gastroenterologist, specifically to Dr. Matt Gipson. My husband’s best friend from high school happens to be an IR physician practicing in Texas.

We asked him to reach out to his network for a recommendation for the best IR physician to treat Budd-Chiari syndrome without saying who I’d been referred to. He said “the very best is in your backyard, Dr. Matt Gipson”.

My family and I were so relieved!

Dr. Gipson showed my husband and I the MRI images and explained the delicate situation we would be facing to treat the Budd-Chiari syndrome.

It was so helpful to have a visual to better understand the intricacies of my condition.

I needed two procedures, a week apart from one another. Dr. Gipson and the nurse, Mary, were very helpful during my recovery, as well.

I think the best way I can describe the weeks prior to, during, and after the angiogram and ultimately, TIPS, is in a word: WHIRLWIND. Mary called to check on me (as did Dr. Gipson) and she was so helpful, answering my many questions as I adjusted to my “new normal”.

I really respect and am grateful for the team of doctors that have provided care for me post Budd-Chiari syndrome diagnosis.

The most important factor that sets Dr. Gipson apart is how thoroughly he explained my condition, provided actual images, and personally followed up with me after the angiogram.

Patient Sarah H. and her husband.