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Updated: Aug 12, 2026

Invasive Hemodynamic Characterization of the Portal-hypertensive Syndrome in Cirrhotic Rats
Published on: August 1, 2018
Risk factors influencing the outcome of portal and mesenteric vein thrombosis
T Berney1, M Morales, P E Broquet
1Clinic of Digestive Surgery, Geneva University Hospital, Switzerland.
Background/Aims:
This study analyzes risk factors that influence the course and outcome of portal and superior mesenteric vein thrombosis (PMVT).
Methodology:
We retrospectively reviewed 45 patients who were admitted to our institution over a 17-year period with a diagnosis of PMVT. Patients were classified according to three etiological groups, namely: cirrhosis (47%), pancreatitis (22%), and other causes (33%), with 1 patient belonging to two different groups.
Results:
Over the course of the disease, rupture of gastric or esophageal varices was more frequent (p<0.005) in cirrhotics (75%) than non-cirrhotics (17%). Sclerotherapy was always the first treatment for variceal bleeding, with a success rate of 73% but a rate of recurrence of 56%. Surgical procedures were performed on 22% of patients. Actuarial survival was 43% at 5 years, but survival was significantly increased for idiopathic cases (p=0.005) and decreased in the presence of cirrhosis (p<0.001), malignancy (p<0.0001) or hematemesis (p<0.005). Gastrointestinal bleeding and terminal malignancies were responsible for 50% of deaths.
Conclusions:
Cirrhotic patients experience a detrimental outcome with an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, which is the first cause of mortality in PMVT. Non-cirrhotic patients, especially idiopathic cases, enjoy a longer survival rate and seldom bleed, which allows for the use of anticoagulative therapy.
Insights
Portal and superior mesenteric vein thrombosis (PMVT) outcomes differ significantly by etiology. Cirrhosis increases gastrointestinal bleeding risk and mortality, while idiopathic cases show better survival and tolerate anticoagulation.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Vascular Medicine
- Hepatology
Background:
- Portal and superior mesenteric vein thrombosis (PMVT) is a serious condition with variable outcomes.
- Etiological factors significantly impact the course and prognosis of PMVT.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze risk factors influencing the course and outcome of portal and superior mesenteric vein thrombosis (PMVT).
- To compare outcomes between different etiological groups of PMVT.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 45 patients diagnosed with PMVT over 17 years.
- Classification of patients into etiological groups: cirrhosis (47%), pancreatitis (22%), and other causes (33%).
Main Results:
- Cirrhotic patients had higher rates of gastric/esophageal variceal rupture (75% vs. 17%) and mortality.
- Actuarial 5-year survival was 43%, significantly lower in cirrhosis, malignancy, or hematemesis.
- Gastrointestinal bleeding and malignancy were responsible for 50% of deaths.
Conclusions:
- Cirrhosis is associated with poor outcomes and increased gastrointestinal bleeding, the primary cause of mortality in PMVT.
- Non-cirrhotic and idiopathic PMVT cases exhibit better survival and are suitable for anticoagulative therapy.
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