Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 2, 2026

New Thrombectomy Technique for Total Portal Vein Thrombosis in Liver Transplantation
Published on: June 27, 2025
Spontaneous resolution of portal vein thrombosis
Vishnu Banumukala1, Adarsh Babu
1Department of Gastroenterology, Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital, Northern Lincolnshire and Goole Hospitals NHS Trust, Grimsby, UK.
Abstract:
A 56-year-old male was admitted with symptoms of belching, abdominal pain and weight loss of 2 weeks duration. Examination revealed hepatosplenomegaly which was confirmed by computed tomography (CT). CT images also revealed filling defects in the portal vein and intrahepatic branches consistent with thrombosis and hepatosplenic infarcts. Alkaline phosphatase was elevated at 688 units, all other investigations, including full blood count, coagulation screen and tumour markers, were normal. Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography did not reveal any mass in the porta hepatis. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and colonoscopy were normal. Liver biopsy was normal and did not reveal any evidence of lymphoma. The raised alkaline phosphatase settled to reference range over a period of 3 weeks. Thrombophilia screen was negative. Contrast CT of the abdomen performed after 4 weeks displayed revascularisation of the previously thrombosed portal vein and intrahepatic branches. The patient has remained asymptomatic since and we note spontaneous recanalisation of the previously occluded portal vein.
Related Concept Videos
Venous Thrombosis III: 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...
Portal Hypertension
Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction
Hepatic Portal System
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...
Vascular Spasm
