Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is the obstruction or narrowing of the portal vein by a blood clot, impeding normal blood flow from the gastrointestinal tract to the liver. This vascular condition can lead to portal hypertension, causing complications like ascites, esophageal varices, and splenomegaly. In medical and ultrasound diagnostics, PVT is crucial to identify promptly, often presenting with symptoms like abdominal pain and fever.
Ultrasound is the primary imaging modality for diagnosing PVT, showing absence of flow or thrombus within the portal vein. Doppler ultrasound, a key technique in vascular assessment, reveals altered flow patterns or complete occlusion. Early detection and management are vital to prevent severe liver damage and improve patient outcomes. Learn more about portal vein thrombosis ultrasound and vascular imaging.