Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 22, 2026

New Thrombectomy Technique for Total Portal Vein Thrombosis in Liver Transplantation
Published on: June 27, 2025
Portal vein thrombus and liver failure in a patient with pheochromocytoma crisis
Andreas E Brauchlin1, Alain Rudiger, Esther B Bächli
1Medical Intensive Care Unit, University Hospital Zurich, CH 8091 Zurich, Switzerland.
Abstract:
A 51-year-old man with known pheochromocytoma refused surgical treatment over several years and subsequently presented in catecholamine crisis with shock and multiple organ failure. Laboratory testing revealed liver failure with elevated liver enzymes and coagulation abnormalities, and imaging showed ischemia of extended parts of the right liver lobe. It also revealed a large thrombus in the right portal vein, which together with severe arterial vasoconstriction impaired the dual blood supply of the liver. The patient recovered after effective medical treatment and finally underwent surgical tumor resection. Thereafter, antihypertensive treatment could be stopped. We present this exceptional case of adrenal crisis and discuss the mechanisms leading to liver failure in general and portal vein thrombosis in particular.
Related Concept Videos
Portal Hypertension
Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
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...
Venous Thrombosis IV: Nursing Management