Ultrasonographic Visualization of Accessory Hepatic Veins and Their Lesions in Budd-Chiari Syndrome
Shi-Feng Cai1, Yong-Hao Gai2, Shuang Ma3
1Department of Radiology, Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan City, Shandong Province, China.
Insights
Ultrasonography effectively visualizes accessory hepatic veins (AHVs) and their lesions in Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). This imaging technique aids in understanding hemodynamics and planning patient treatment.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Vascular Imaging
- Hepatology
Background:
- Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) involves hepatic venous outflow obstruction.
- Accessory hepatic veins (AHVs) are often implicated but less studied in BCS.
- Accurate visualization of AHVs and their lesions is crucial for BCS management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrasonographic features of accessory hepatic veins (AHVs) in patients with Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS).
- To evaluate the diagnostic superiority of ultrasonography for AHV lesions and hemodynamics compared to other imaging modalities.
Main Methods:
- Three hundred patients with BCS underwent ultrasonography using multifrequency convex transducers.
- Sonographic evaluation included number, course, diameter, orifice, lesions, and hemodynamics of AHVs.
- Comparison with digital subtraction angiography, CT angiography, and MRI was performed.
Main Results:
- Ultrasonography demonstrated superiority in revealing AHV lesions and hemodynamics.
- Dilated AHVs were detected in 227 patients.
- Common AHV lesions included septal obstruction and segmental stenosis, with hemodynamics varying based on IVC and AHV conditions.
Conclusions:
- Ultrasonic examination is highly effective for identifying AHVs and their associated lesions in BCS.
- This modality provides valuable insights into hemodynamics, aiding therapeutic planning for BCS patients.
Abstract:
The aim of this study was to investigate the ultrasonographic features of accessory hepatic veins (AHVs) and their lesions in Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). Three hundred patients with BCS were examined by ultrasonography with multifrequency (3-6 MHz) convex transducers. Sonography was performed 1 to 2 wk before digital subtraction angiography and computed tomography angiography or magnetic resonance imaging. Using sonograms, we evaluated the number, course, diameter, orifice, lesions and hemodynamics of patent and obstructed AHVs. Ultrasonography was superior to digital subtraction angiography, computed tomography angiography and magnetic resonance imaging in revealing AHV lesions and hemodynamics. Dilated AHVs were detected in 227 patients. There were 239 caudate lobe veins in 167 patients and 168 inferior right hepatic veins in 151 patients. Both caudate lobe veins and inferior right hepatic veins were found in 91 of the 227 patients. The inlets to AHVs were located mainly on the right lateral or right anterior wall of the inferior vena cava, and the remnant, on the left lateral wall. AHV lesions comprised mainly septal obstruction and segmental stenosis. The hemodynamics of AHVs varied with the condition of inferior vena cava and AHVs. Ultrasonic examination can reveal AHVs and their lesions in patients with BCS and is helpful in choosing and planning therapeutic approaches.
Related Concept Videos
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
Veins of Thorax
The azygos vein, positioned just right of the midline and anterior to the vertebral column, begins at the junction of the right ascending lumbar and subcostal veins, terminating in the superior vena cava. This vein drains blood from the right side of the thoracic wall, thoracic viscera, and posterior abdominal wall.
The...
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...
Veins of the Abdomen and Pelvis
The inferior vena cava is fed by numerous smaller veins. The lumbar veins, for instance, drain the posterior abdominal wall, emptying both directly into the inferior vena cava and into the...


