[Portal thrombosis: the diagnostic and therapeutic aspects and clinical cases]

The authors report their experience, from 1983 to 1992, in the treatment of portal vein thrombosis and discuss various aetiological factor of obstruction also underlining the frequent and important association with portal hypertension. The authors emphasize the crucial role of the modern diagnostic techniques such as endoscopy and imaging radiology (U.S., C.T., angiography). Although these techniques not always allow a conclusive evidence in relation to aetiology, however, it is possible to have a rationale for the treatment, i.e. medical, sclerotherapeutic or surgical. As related to the surgical procedures, the authors--based on their personal experience--believe the best are the non-derivative ones.