Sonography - Portal Venous Hypertension
Definition
Acute or chronic hepatocellular disease can block the flow of blood throughout the liver, causing it to back up into the hepatic portal circulation. This causes the blood pressure in the hepatic circulation to increase (portal hypertension). In an effort to relieve the pressure, collateral veins are formed that connect to the systemic veins. This is known as varicose veins and occurs most frequently in the area of the esophagus, stomach, and rectum. Rupture of these veins may cause massive bleeding that may result in death.
Sandra L.Hagen-Ansert, M.S., RDMS, RDCS
Charleston, South Carolina
Michael S. Getsinger RT®, RDMS, RVT
Charleston, South Carolina