Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 2, 2026

New Thrombectomy Technique for Total Portal Vein Thrombosis in Liver Transplantation
Published on: June 27, 2025
Portomesenteric vein thrombosis following laparoscopic greater curve plication for morbid obesity
Carol Man-Sze Lai1, Shirley Yuk-Wah Liu1, Jeffrey Ka-Tak Wong2
1Department of Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
Abstract:
Portomesenteric venous thrombosis (PMVT) is an uncommon condition associated with intra-abdominal visceral ischemia that is often difficult to manage. While postoperative PMVT has been rarely reported following laparoscopic abdominal surgery, its occurrence in morbidly obese patients is gaining increasing concern due to its relatively higher incidence after laparoscopic bariatric surgery. Diagnosis of PMVT can be readily accomplished by computed tomography scan. Although prompt treatment with recanalisation of portovenous system and reversal of mesenteric venous ischemia can be potentially life-saving, the overall mortality of postoperative PMVT can only be controlled by understanding the underlying etiologies and preventing its occurrence. Here, we report a case of PMVT in a morbidly obese lady who presented at 10days after an uneventful laparoscopic greater curve plication. The potential etiology and management of this rare complication are elucidated in details.
Insights
Portomesenteric venous thrombosis (PMVT) is a rare complication after laparoscopic bariatric surgery, especially in morbidly obese patients. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for survival, emphasizing the need to understand its causes and prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Vascular Surgery
- Bariatric Surgery
Background:
- Portomesenteric venous thrombosis (PMVT) is an uncommon yet serious condition linked to intra-abdominal visceral ischemia.
- Postoperative PMVT is rarely seen after general laparoscopic surgery but is a growing concern following laparoscopic bariatric procedures in morbidly obese individuals.
- Accurate diagnosis of PMVT is achievable through computed tomography scans.
Observation:
- This report details a case of PMVT in a morbidly obese female 10 days post-laparoscopic greater curve plication.
- The patient's presentation occurred after an otherwise uneventful surgical procedure.
Findings:
- Prompt treatment involving recanalization of the portovenous system and reversal of mesenteric venous ischemia can be life-saving.
- Effective management of postoperative PMVT hinges on understanding its underlying etiologies and implementing preventive measures.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of vigilance for PMVT in morbidly obese patients undergoing laparoscopic bariatric surgery.
- Further research into the specific risk factors and optimal prevention strategies for PMVT in this patient population is warranted.
- Understanding the etiology and management of PMVT is critical for improving patient outcomes and reducing mortality associated with this complication.
Related Concept Videos
Obesity
Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction
Veins
Structure of Veins:
The structure of veins is specifically designed to assist in the low-pressure transportation of...
Heating and Cooling Curves
For instance, the addition of heat raises the temperature of a solid; the amount of heat absorbed depends on the heat capacity of the solid (q = mcsolidΔT). According to thermochemistry, the relation between the amount of heat absorbed or released by a substance, q, and its...
Acid-Base Titration Curves
For a titration carried out for 25.00 mL of...
Drug Dosing: Obese Patients

