Gastric arterio-venous malformation emerging from splenic artery

Esophageal varices are dilated, tortuous veins which are found mainly in the submucosa of the lower esophagus but which may also appear higher up or extend into the stomach. They develop due to increased pressure in the portal venous system, often as a result of liver cirrhosis. This condition scars and damages the liver, impeding normal blood flow through the portal vein. To compensate, blood seeks alternative pathways, forming fragile new vessels (varices) in the esophagus and stomach. These...

Splanchnic circulation refers to the network of blood vessels that supply and drain blood from the abdominal organs involved in digestion, including the stomach, liver, pancreas, intestines, and spleen. This circulation delivers essential nutrients and oxygen while removing waste products from these organs.
Blood Supply to the Digestive System: The splanchnic circulation involves three main arteries: the celiac artery (also known as the celiac trunk) and the superior and inferior mesenteric...

Once the aorta traverses the diaphragmatic plane at the aortic hiatus, it is known as the abdominal aorta. This anatomical structure is positioned leftward of the spinal column, encased within a cocoon of adipose tissue behind the peritoneal cavity. It terminates at the L4 vertebra, where it splits into the common iliac arteries. Prior to this bifurcation, the abdominal aorta gives rise to several vital branches.
The celiac trunk, a singular artery, divides into the left gastric artery, which...

Esophageal varices often manifest as gastrointestinal bleeding episodes, presenting symptoms like hematemesis (vomiting of blood), hematochezia (passing fresh blood via the rectum), and melena (black, tarry stools). Other signs can include weight loss, anorexia, abdominal discomfort, jaundice, pruritus, altered mental status, and muscle cramps.
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol abuse, or...

The hepatic portal system, a critical part of our circulatory framework, transports nutrient-laden, deoxygenated blood from the gastrointestinal tract and spleen to the liver. This ingenious system plays an indispensable role in maintaining our body's metabolic equilibrium.
At its core, the hepatic portal vein is the result of a confluence of the superior and inferior mesenteric veins along with the splenic vein. Each of these veins has a unique role. The superior mesenteric vein is responsible...