Linear endoscopic ultrasound evaluation of hepatic veins

Liver resection surgery can be associated with significant perioperative mortality and morbidity. Extensive knowledge of the vascular anatomy is essential for successful, uncomplicated liver surgeries. Various imaging techniques like multidetector computed tomographic and magnetic resonance angiography are used to provide information about hepatic vasculature. Linear endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) can offer a detailed evaluation of hepatic veins, help in assessment of liver segments and can offer a possible route for EUS guided vascular endotherapy involving hepatic veins. A standard technique for visualization of hepatic veins by linear EUS has not been described. This review paper describes the normal EUS anatomy of hepatic veins and a standard technique for visualization of hepatic veins from four stations. With practice an imaging of all the hepatic veins is possible from four stations. The imaging from fundus of stomach is the easiest and most convenient method of imaging of hepatic veins. EUS of hepatic vein and the tributaries is an operator dependent technique and in expert hands may give a mapping comparable to computed tomographic and magnetic resonance imaging. EUS of hepatic veins can help in identification of individual sectors and segments of liver. EUS guided interventions involving hepatic veins may require approach from different stations.