Portal Hypertension Specialists in CVD, Delhi

What is Portal Hypertension?

Portal hypertension is a condition characterised by abnormally elevated pressure within the portal venous system, the network of veins that carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver. It most commonly develops as a consequence of liver cirrhosis, where scar tissue distorts the liver's normal architecture and obstructs the smooth flow of blood through the organ, causing pressure to build up in the veins feeding into it. This elevated pressure forces blood to seek alternative pathways, leading to the formation of enlarged, fragile veins in locations such as the oesophagus and stomach, which carry a significant risk of sudden, severe bleeding. Portal hypertension also contributes to fluid accumulation in the abdomen and enlargement of the spleen, both common complications of advanced liver disease. Management focuses on reducing portal pressure, preventing and treating bleeding complications, and, when possible, addressing the underlying liver disease.

Causes of Portal Hypertension

Most commonly caused by liver cirrhosis from chronic hepatitis, alcohol use, or fatty liver disease, which distorts the liver's internal blood vessels and obstructs normal blood flow. Less common causes include blood clots in the portal vein itself, or conditions affecting the blood vessels leading out of the liver. Any condition that significantly scars or obstructs the liver's blood supply can lead to portal hypertension over time.

Symptoms of Portal Hypertension

Abdominal swelling from fluid accumulation, vomiting blood or passing black tarry stools from bleeding varices, an enlarged spleen, fatigue, confusion in advanced cases, visible distended veins on the abdominal wall, easy bruising, reduced platelet count found on blood tests

Treatment & Types of Portal Hypertension in CVD, Delhi

Treatment includes medications such as beta-blockers to reduce pressure within the portal venous system and lower the risk of variceal bleeding, alongside endoscopic procedures to band or treat enlarged veins at high risk of bleeding. Fluid accumulation in the abdomen is managed with dietary salt restriction and diuretic medications, with drainage procedures used for significant or refractory cases. A procedure called TIPS, which creates a channel to reduce portal pressure, or liver transplantation may be considered for patients with severe or recurrent complications.

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