Status epilepticus after ligation of portosystemic shunts.

Status epilepticus developed in four dogs, 2 to 3 days after ligation of an extrahepatic portosystemic shunt. Pentobarbital or phenobarbital intravenously was required to control seizure activity. Two dogs treated with phenobarbital recovered. Exacerbation of hepatic encephalopathy secondary to metabolic changes after surgery may be a cause of this syndrome. A treatment protocol for status epilepticus after ligation of a portosystemic shunt is proposed.