Portal Hypertension

📖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.

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