Radiological interventions in portal hypertension

Area of Science:

• Interventional Radiology
• Hepatology
• Vascular Surgery

Background:

• Portal hypertension (PHT) traditionally involved radiologists mainly in diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Advancements in interventional radiology have introduced minimally invasive techniques for PHT management.
• This signifies a shift in the radiologist's role from diagnostic to therapeutic interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evolving role of radiologists in portal hypertension management.
• To discuss the nuances of various radiological interventions for treating portal hypertension.
• To highlight minimally invasive techniques for PHT complications.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on interventional radiology for portal hypertension.
• Discussion of techniques including recanalisation, shunt creation, and variceal bleeding control.
• Analysis of the expanded role of radiologists in PHT patient care.

Main Results:

• Interventional radiology offers effective minimally invasive treatment options for PHT.
• Techniques like recanalisation, shunt creation, and embolization are crucial for managing complications.
• Radiologists are increasingly involved in the direct management of portal hypertension.

Conclusions:

• The scope of radiology in portal hypertension management has significantly expanded.
• Interventional radiology provides essential tools for treating PHT and its sequelae.
• Radiologists are now integral to the multidisciplinary management of portal hypertension.