Portal vein thrombosis

Impact of MASLD on Portal Vein Thrombosis Following Hepatectomy for Liver Cancer

Background: Due to the increasing global prevalence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is closely linked to metabolic disorders, there has been a rise in the number of patients with NAFLD undergoing hepatectomy. The metabolic disorders, as well as NAFLD, increase venous thrombotic risk. NAFLD was recently updated to a new concept of hepatic steatosis: metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). We aimed to investigate the impact of MASLD on post-hepatectomy portal vein thrombosis (PH-PVT). Methods: A total of 106 patients who underwent hepatectomy for liver cancer were included. Steatotic liver disease (SLD) was diagnosed using a CT L/S ratio of <1.1. SLD was classified as follows: MASLD, SLD associated with metabolic factors without alcohol consumption; MetALD, SLD with metabolic factors and moderate alcohol consumption; Other SLD, alcohol or other specific etiology of SLD; and No SLD, no hepatic steatosis. Results: PH-PVT was detected in 12/106 patients (11.3%); MASLD, 7/20 (35%); MetALD, 1/5 (20%); Other SLD, 1/13 (8%); and No SLD, 3/68 (4.4%). Multivariate analysis showed that the MASLD group (including MASLD and MetALD) (odds ratio [OR], 9.27) and left lateral sectionectomy (OR, 6.22) were significant independent risk factors for PH-PVT. Additionally, the incidence of PH-PVT was significantly higher in patients with MASLD than in those without SLD, along with metabolic factors, excluding alcohol consumption. Conclusions: MASLD and MetALD were identified as independent and significant risk factors for PH-PVT. Consideration was given to the idea that hepatic steatosis and metabolic dysfunction play synergistic roles in PH-PVT development.

Clinical characteristics and predictors of benign portal vein thrombosis in patients with liver cirrhosis: A retrospective single-center study

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a common thrombotic complication of cirrhosis. It can lead to variceal bleeding and bowel ischemia and also complicate liver transplantation. Identifying the possible risk factors associated with PVT can aid in identifying patients at high risk, enabling their screening and potentially preventing PVT through the rational use of anticoagulants. This study focuses on examining the clinical characteristics of PVT in cirrhotic patients and identifying the clinical and biochemical factors that are linked to the development of PVT. Consecutive hospitalized cirrhotic patients between 2015 and 2023 were identified through the hospital's computerized medical records based on the Tenth Revision of the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD-10) coding system and retrospectively analyzed. 928 individuals were included in this study; 783 (84.3%) without PVT and 145 (15.7%) with benign PVT. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) was significantly more common in the PVT group (P-value = .02), while alcohol and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) were less common in this group (P-value = .01 and .02, respectively). Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) (P-value < .01), ascites (P-value = .01), and spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) (P-value = .02) were more common in the PVT group. Patients with PVT had a higher international normalized ratio (INR) level (P-value = .042) and lower plasma albumin (P-value = .01). No differences were identified in white blood cell, hemoglobin, platelet, and bilirubin levels. However, patients with PVT had higher model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) (P-value = .01) and Child-Pugh scores (P-value = .03). This study demonstrated a higher likelihood of PVT presence in cirrhotic patients with advanced age, HBV, and HCC, along with ascites, SBP, splenomegaly, hypoalbuminemia, elevated INR, and a higher MELD score. Nevertheless, additional research endeavors are necessary to accurately ascertain and validate supplementary risk factors within a broader demographic.

Splanchnic Vein Thrombosis: The State-of-the-Art on Anticoagulant Treatment

Splanchnic vein thrombosis (SVT) is a rare type of venous thromboembolism occurring within the splanchnic venous system. Portal vein thrombosis is the most common presentation, while Budd-Chiari syndrome is the least common. Liver cirrhosis and abdominal solid cancer are the main local risk factors for SVT, whereas myeloproliferative neoplasms are the predominant systemic risk factors. Signs and symptoms of SVT are nonspecific and include abdominal pain, gastrointestinal bleeding, and ascites. Asymptomatic SVT is not uncommon, and the majority would be detected incidentally on routine abdominal imaging performed for the follow-up of liver diseases and tumors. The management of SVT aims to prevent thrombus progression, promote vessel recanalization, and prevent recurrent venous thromboembolism. Anticoagulation should be started early in order to increase the chances of vessel recanalization and reduce the risk of portal hypertension-related complications. Direct oral anticoagulants have been included in recent guidelines, as alternatives to vitamin K antagonists, after clinical stability has been reached; however, caution is required in patients with liver or kidney dysfunction. Treatment duration is based on the presence (or absence) and type (transient vs. permanent) of risk factors. This narrative review aims to summarize the latest evidence on SVT, with a particular focus on the anticoagulant treatment in special categories of patients (e.g., liver cirrhosis, solid cancer, myeloproliferative neoplasms, pancreatitis, incidentally detected SVT, Budd-Chiari syndrome, and chronic SVT).

Prevalence and Risk Factors for Portal Cavernoma in Adult Patients with Portal Vein Thrombosis

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) represents a restriction or occlusion of the portal vein by a blood clot, which can appear in liver cirrhosis, inherited or acquired thrombophilia, malignancies, abdominal infection, abdominal inflammation, and injury to the portal vein; it can evolve to local venous extension, recanalization, or portal cavernoma (PC). This research represents an observational study of patients admitted with a diagnosis of PVT between January 2018 and December 2022. We assessed the rate of and risk factors for PC. In total, 189 patients with PVT were included; the rate of PC was 14.8%. In univariate and multivariate analysis, the main risk factors for the presence of PC were etiology (thrombophilia, myeloproliferative disorders, local inflammatory diseases, and idiopathic causes), prior PVT, and complete versus incomplete or single-branch portal obstruction. In patients with superior mesenteric vein (SMV) thrombosis, distal obstruction was more prone to PC than proximal obstruction. The main predictive factors were etiology, prior PVT, complete PVT obstruction, and no prior non-selective beta-blocker (NSBB) use; in patients with SMV thrombosis, the distal extension was more significantly associated with the risk of PC. We propose a composite score for the prediction of PC which includes etiology, prior diagnosis of PVT, prior NSBB use, complete versus incomplete PVT, and distal versus proximal SMV thrombosis, with good accuracy (AUC 0.822) and an estimated sensitivity of 76.92% and specificity of 82.39% at a cut-off value of 4.

Portomesenteric Venous Thrombosis after Bariatric Surgery: A Case Series and Systematic Review Comparing LSG and LRYGB

(1) Background: Portomesenteric Venous Thrombosis (PMVT) is a rare but serious complication of Metabolic Bariatric Surgery (MBS). Although more frequently reported after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG), the risk factors for PMVT remain unclear. This study aims to compare the incidence and determinants of PMVT between LSG and laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB). (2) Methods: A retrospective analysis of 5235 MBSs conducted at our institution between 2015 and 2023 identified five cases of PMVT. Additionally, a systematic review in March 2023, covering PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus, was performed. Several data were analyzed regarding risk factors. (3) Results: In our case series, the incidence of PMVT was 0.1%. The five cases described involved four females with a BMI between 39.7 and 56.0 kg/m2. Their comorbidities were associated with metabolic syndrome, all women used oral contraceptive and two patients were diagnosed with thrombophilia or pulmonary embolism. Per protocol, thromboprophylaxis was administered to all patients. Diagnosis was made at a median of 16 days post-surgery, with abdominal pain being the main presenting symptom. Acute cases were managed with enoxaparin, unfractionated heparin and fibrinolysis. One patient required surgery. Ten studies were included in the systematic review and 205 patients with PMVT were identified: 193 (94.1%) post-LSG and 12 post-LRYGB. The most common comorbidities were dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, sleep apnea and liver disorders; (4) Conclusions: PMVT is a potentially life-threatening complication after MBS, requiring preventive measures, timely diagnosis and several treatments. Our findings suggest a higher occurrence in women with an elevated BMI and post-LSG. Tailored thromboprophylaxis for MBS patients at risk of PMVT may be warranted.

Management of extensive portal vein thrombosis via thrombolysis and thrombectomy without underlying liver disease: A case report

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a rare condition, particularly in non-cirrhotic patients. Anticoagulation remains the mainstay of the treatment. Extensive PVT can lead to variceal bleeding, ascites, bowel ischemia, and hypersplenism. The role of thrombolysis and thrombectomy in these patients remains unclear. However, there is evidence that local thrombolysis and thrombectomy should be considered in those who remain symptomatic on anticoagulation and are at risk of complications with acute PVT.

Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt in Nonmalignant Noncirrhotic Portal Vein Thrombosis and Portosinusoidal Vascular Disorder

Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) emerges as a key treatment for portal hypertension (PH) complications. While international guidelines provide clear indications for its use in cirrhosis, empirical knowledge is notably scarcer in non-cirrhotic PH, particularly in nonmalignant noncirrhotic portal vein thrombosis (NNPVT) and in patients with portosinusoidal vascular disorder (PSVD). Patients afflicted by these rare diseases exhibit distinct clinical profiles compared to their cirrhotic counterparts, often characterized by a younger age, predominantly preserved hepatic functionality even in cases of severe PH, and a higher propensity for extensive splanchnic thrombosis, which intricately complicates TIPS placement, posing unique challenges for its creation. The objective of this review is to synthesize existing literature on the effectiveness, safety, specific indications, and clinical outcomes of TIPS in adult patients with NNPVT or PSVD, focusing also on the technical challenges of TIPS insertion in the presence of portal cavernoma.

ADAMTS-13: A Prognostic Biomarker for Portal Vein Thrombosis in Japanese Patients with Liver Cirrhosis

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT), one of the most prevalent hepatic vascular conditions in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC), is associated with high mortality rates. An imbalance between a disintegrin-like metalloproteinase with thrombospondin type-1 motifs 13 (ADAMTS-13) enzyme and von Willebrand factor (VWF) is responsible for hypercoagulability, including spontaneous thrombus formation in blood vessels. Herein, we aimed to identify potential prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers in Japanese patients with LC and PVT. In total, 345 patients were divided into two groups: 40 patients who developed PVT (PVT group) and 305 who did not develop PVT (NPVT group). Among the 345 patients with LC, 81% (279/345) were deemed ineligible due to the presence of preventive comorbidities, active or recent malignancies, and organ dysfunction. The remaining 66 patients were divided into two groups: the PVT group (n = 33) and the NPVT group (n = 33). Plasma ADAMTS-13 activity (ADAMTS-13:AC) and the vWF antigen (VWF:Ag) were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Contrast-enhanced, three-dimensional helical computed tomography (CT) was used to detect and characterize PVT. ADAMTS-13:AC was significantly lower in the PVT group than in the NPVT group. No significant differences in plasma vWF:Ag or liver stiffness were observed between the two groups. ADAMTS-13:AC of <18.8 was an independent risk factor for PVT on multivariate analyses (odds ratio: 1.67, 95% confidence interval: 1.21-3.00, p < 0.002). The receiver operating characteristic analysis of ADAMTS-13:AC revealed an area under the curve of 0.913 in PVT detection. Patients with PVT having ADAMTS-13:AC ≥18.8 (n = 17) had higher albumin levels and better prognoses than those with ADAMTS-13:AC <18.8 (n = 16). No significant correlations of ADAMTS-13:AC levels with either fibrin degradation product or D-dimer levels were observed. ADAMTS-13:AC levels could be potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers for PVT in Japanese patients with LC.

Fatal acute portal vein thrombosis associated with hepatic cysts in a patient with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease

Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) often involves polycystic liver disease (PLD). In severe cases, PLD can develop various complications. However, fatal acute portal vein thrombosis (APVT) associated with PLD has not been reported. A 64-year-old male reported mild consciousness disorder. He had been under maintenance hemodialysis for end-stage renal disease due to ADPKD with PLD. Because of recurring hepatic cyst infections, he had sustained high levels of C-reactive protein. Regarding the mild consciousness disorder, a diagnosis of hepatic encephalopathy was made based on an elevation of serum ammonia without any other abnormal liver function tests. Several days after his admission, hepatobiliary enzymes elevated, and acute liver failure progressed. Enhanced abdominal computed tomography suggested the possibility of complete occlusion of the portal vein by a thrombus. Based on an absence of obvious portosystemic collaterals, a diagnosis of APVT was made. The patient died 19 days after admission. Patients with PLD with repeated cystic infections have been seen to develop liver failure, and APVT formation may be one cause of the rapid progression of fatal liver failure. In conclusion, this is the first paper to report on the involvement of APVT in patients with PLD.

Portal Vein Aneurysm in a Patient with Cirrhosis Type C Controlled by Direct-Acting Antiviral Treatment

Introduction

Portal vein aneurysm (PVA) is a rare saccular or fusiform portal vein dilatation. The management and optimal treatment of PVA remain unknown.

Case Presentation

A 53-year-old man with hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection was diagnosed with PVA measuring 28 mm in diameter. Under observation, his liver fibrosis progressed, and the PVA diameter gradually increased to 52 mm. The patient was treated with elbasvir-grazoprevir for 12 weeks, and HCV disappeared. After achieving sustained virological response, liver fibrosis improved and the PVA progression ceased.

Conclusion

HCV clearance by direct-acting antiviral treatment not only regressed liver fibrosis but may have also restrained the progression of PVA in a patient with cirrhosis type C and PVA.

Guidelines for the management of coagulation disorders in patients with cirrhosis

Coagulation management in the patient with cirrhosis has undergone a significant transformation since the beginning of this century, with the concept of a rebalancing between procoagulant and anticoagulant factors. The paradigm that patients with cirrhosis have a greater bleeding tendency has changed, as a result of this rebalancing. In addition, it has brought to light the presence of complications related to thrombotic events in this group of patients. These guidelines detail aspects related to pathophysiologic mechanisms that intervene in the maintenance of hemostasis in the patient with cirrhosis, the relevance of portal hypertension, mechanical factors for the development of bleeding, modifications in the hepatic synthesis of coagulation factors, and the changes in the reticuloendothelial system in acute hepatic decompensation and acute-on-chronic liver failure. They address new aspects related to the hemorrhagic complications in patients with cirrhosis, considering the risk for bleeding during diagnostic or therapeutic procedures, as well as the usefulness of different tools for diagnosing coagulation and recommendations on the pharmacologic treatment and blood-product transfusion in the context of hemorrhage. These guidelines also update the knowledge regarding hypercoagulability in the patient with cirrhosis, as well as the efficacy and safety of treatment with the different anticoagulation regimens. Lastly, they provide recommendations on coagulation management in the context of acute-on-chronic liver failure, acute liver decompensation, and specific aspects related to the patient undergoing liver transplantation.

Portal Vein Thrombosis in Patients With Cirrhosis of the Liver: Prevalence and Risk Factors

INTRODUCTION

Chronic liver disease very often culminates into cirrhosis and its associated complications. One of the serious complications is portal venous thrombosis, which can occur due to a variety of risk factors. One significant factor contributing to portal hypertension is portal vein thrombosis (PVT). In this study, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of PVT among patients with liver cirrhosis in a tertiary hospital and identify the factors associated with this complication.

METHODOLOGY

This was a cross-sectional observational study of 93 diagnosed liver cirrhosis patients treated at Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER) hospital in southern India between June 2020 and January 2021. A thorough evaluation of the clinical condition of the patients and associated comorbidities was done. The patients then underwent Doppler ultrasound/CECT/MRI to look for PVT and its extent. The collected data were analyzed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions (SPSS, version 24) (IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Armonk, NY). Comparison between two proportions was done using two two-tailed Z-test/Fisher's exact tests.

RESULTS

Our study found a PVT prevalence of 17.2% in cirrhotic patients, with a higher prevalence of acute PVT than chronic PVT. Ascitic fluid infection, longer duration of cirrhosis, and increased cirrhosis severity were significantly associated with PVT development. We found no significant associations between PVT and gender, hypertension, smoking, diabetes, or the duration of alcohol intake.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the importance of early screening for PVT using Doppler USG in all patients diagnosed with cirrhosis. Additionally, anticoagulation therapy for acute PVT may be considered in patients without bleeding risks.

Risk factors for portal vein system thrombosis after partial splenic embolisation in cirrhotic patients with hypersplenism

AIM

To determine risk factors for portal venous system thrombosis (PVST) after partial splenic artery embolisation (PSAE) in cirrhotic patients with hypersplenism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between March 2014 and February 2022, 428 cirrhotic patients with hypersplenism underwent partial splenic artery embolisation and from these patients 208 were enrolled and 220 were excluded. Medical records of enrolled patients were collected. Computed tomography (CT) images were reviewed by two blinded, independent radiologists. Statistical analyses were performed by using SPSS.

RESULTS

Progressive PVST was observed in 18.75% (39/208) of cirrhotic patients after PSAE. No significant differences in peripheral blood counts, liver function biomarkers, and renal function were observed between the patients with progressive PVST and the patients without progressive PVST. The imaging data showed significant differences in PVST, the diameters of the portal, splenic, and superior mesenteric veins between the progressive PVST group and non-progressive PVST group. Univariate and multivariate analysis demonstrated portal vein thrombosis, spleen infarction percentage, and the diameter of the splenic vein were independent risk factors for progressive PVST. Seventeen of 173 (9.83%) patients showed new PVST; the growth of PVST was observed in 62.86% (22/35) of the patients with pre-existing PVST. Spleen infarction percentage and the diameter of the splenic vein were independent risk factors for new PVST after PSAE.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated portal vein thrombosis, spleen infarction percentage, and the diameter of the splenic vein were independent risk factors for PVST after PSAE in cirrhotic patients with hypersplenism.

Distinct ways to perform a liver biopsy: The core technique setups and updated understanding of these modalities

There is dramatically increased incidence of several liver diseases worldwide; thus, an unmet need to diagnose and stage these pathological entities heralds the wide application of liver biopsy (LB) techniques. The ways of LB are versatile, including percutaneous LB, transjugular LB, and more recently an approach of minimal invasiveness, that is, EUS-guided LB (EUS-LB). In this review article, we come to the conclusion that EUS-LB may serve as a feasible, reliable, and safe alternative to percutaneous LB and transjugular LB in terms of improved diagnostic yield, excellent sampling performance, and controlled adverse events among patients with focal, infiltrative, and parenchymal liver diseases. Furthermore, extensive efforts have been made to optimize and refine several technical pillars within EUS-LB modality such as the selection of needle size/type, priming manner of biopsy needle, and choice of pass/actuation technique, all of which aim at obtaining better specimen quantity and quality. Another advantageous aspect and unique property pertinent to EUS-guided modality indicate that multiple screening, surveillance, and intervention procedures can be combined into one single endoscopic session. Accordingly, some pilot studies have clarified the clinical usefulness by integrating EUS-LB with simultaneous measurement of portal pressure gradient or examination of liver stiffness. However, more studies, in particular, randomized controlled trials or real-world evidence, are practically warranted to elucidate the validity and safety of EUS-LB as a regular/routine part of managing liver diseases.

Case report: Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria presenting with hemorrhagic esophageal varices

We report the case of a female who was cured of hemorrhagic esophageal varices caused by paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) through transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) treatment. PNH complicated by portal vein and visceral veins thrombosis without hepatic veins is extremely rare, and as such, it is easy to incorrectly treat due to lack of awareness. Hemorrhagic esophageal varices due to PNH with PVT have been reported in one case in 1974, and here, we report the second.

The effect of splenic vein diameter on the diagnosis of portal vein thrombosis

BACKGROUND

It was still controversial that whether the increase of splenic vein (SV) diameter increased the risk of portal vein thrombosis (PVT), which was a severe disease with high mortality, in the clinic.

PURPOSES

This study, using computational fluid dynamics method, aimed to investigate how the increase of SV diameter affects the portal vein hemodynamics under different anatomical and geometric features of the portal venous system, thus how it induced to PVT.

METHODS

The ideal models of the portal system, including different anatomical structures according to the location of left gastric vein (LGV) and inferior mesenteric vein (IMV), and different geometric morphological parameters models were established to carry out numerical simulation in this study. In addition, the morphological parameters of real patients were measured to verify the numerical simulation results.

RESULTS

First, the wall shear stress (WSS) and helicity intensity, which were closely related to the occurrence of thrombosis, gradually decreased with the increase of SV diameter in all models. However, the degree of decrease was bigger in following models: (1) the models with LGV and IMV linking to SV compared with them linking to PV; (2) the models with big angle of PV and SV compared with small angle. In addition, the morbidity of PVT was higher when LGV and IMV linked to SV rather than them linked to PV in the real patients. Moreover, the angle of PV and SV was also different between PVT and non-PVT patients (125.53° ± 16.90° vs. 115.03° ± 16.10°, p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Whether the increase of SV diameter will result in PVT is depended on the anatomical structure of portal system and the angle between PV and SV, this is also the reason leading to the clinical controversy that the increase of SV diameter is the risk factor of PVT.

Portal vein thrombosis after cetuximab and 5-fluorouracil therapy in a patient with advanced colon cancer and decompensated cirrhosis: a case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Treatment options for advanced colon cancer are mainly combinations of chemotherapy and targeted drugs. However, poor physical health and medication intolerance limit the choice of anticancer drugs. Colon cancer with cirrhosis is a particular patient group that poses a challenge to clinical treatment.

CASE PRESENTATION

This article presents a case of a patient in the decompensated stage of cirrhosis who was diagnosed with advanced colon cancer. The initial presentation was a nodule on his navel named the Sister Mary Joseph's nodule, which was later confirmed by biopsy and PET-CT as one of the metastases of colon cancer. The patient was treated with cetuximab and 5-fluorouracil at a below-guideline dose; however, portal vein thrombosis developed and led to death. This entire process, from diagnosis to death, occurred within a span of three months.

CONCLUSION

Cancers with cirrhosis are a special group that deserves more attention. There is no unified treatment guideline for these patients, especially those with extrahepatic primary tumors. We should be more cautious when choosing treatment for such patients in the future. Both chemotherapy and targeted treatment may potentially induce portal vein thrombosis, which appears to have a higher incidence and worse prognosis than cancers without cirrhosis.

Portal Vein Thrombosis in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis: What Went Wrong?

Purpose

This study aimed to explore inflammatory biomarkers, stool's functional bacterial groups and their possible link to portal vein thrombosis (PVT) in patients with liver cirrhosis (LC).

Materials and Methods

An observational study of 300 participants: 200 inhospital cirrhotic patients, who met inclusion criteria, equally assigned into two groups, based on the presence or absence of PVT and 100 healthy controls was carried out.

Results

The PVT group displayed significant differences related to older age, cigarettes smoking history, emergency admission, higher Child-Pugh score, metabolic related disorders and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, as well as non-obstructive aspects, with chronic thrombi. The PVT group exhibited significant differences related to biomarkers such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, C-reactive protein (CRP), D-dimers (D-D), as well as gut overall dysbiosis (DB) and alteration of different functional bacterial groups of the gut microbiota. Strong positive correlations were observed between PVT severity, and TNF-alpha, CRP, D-D as well as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) positive bacteria. Esophageal varices, age and abdominal pain were independent predictors for PVT severity as well as CRP, TNF-alpha and D-D.

Conclusion

Patients with LC and PVT displayed elevation of TNF-alpha, CRP, D-D alterations of the functional gut microbiota, as well as several morphological and clinical particularities. Although the LPS positive gut microbiota was linked to inflammatory biomarkers and PVT severity, it was not proven to be an independent predictor of the PVT severity like CRP, TNF-alpha and D-D.

Prevalence of portal vein and splanchnic venous thrombosis in dogs with chronic hepatitis

OBJECTIVES

Alterations in haemostasis have been described in dogs and humans with chronic hepatitis. Portal vein thrombosis is a recognised complication of chronic hepatitis in humans; however, its prevalence in dogs with chronic hepatitis has not been reported. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of, and describe clinical and laboratory data of dogs with chronic hepatitis and portal vein thrombosis and splanchnic venous thrombosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective cross-sectional study. Medical records of dogs admitted to a veterinary teaching hospital between 2009 and 2019 were reviewed. Dogs were included if chronic hepatitis was histopathologically confirmed, and if diagnostic imaging or necropsy indicated the presence of thrombosis. Clinical and laboratory data (i.e. haematology, biochemistry, coagulation panels) were recorded. Descriptive statistics were used to characterise dogs with and without thrombosis.

RESULTS

Records from 136 dogs with chronic hepatitis were identified. Three of these dogs, 2.2% (95% confidence interval: 0.8 to 6.3%) all females, were diagnosed with portal vein thrombosis. Five dogs in total, (3.7%; 95% confidence interval: 1.6 to 8.3%), including three with portal vein thrombosis, all females, were diagnosed with splanchnic venous thrombosis. Dogs with portal vein and splanchnic venous thrombosis often had hyperbilirubinaemia, increased serum gamma-glutamyl transferase activity, and decreased plasma antithrombin 3 activity. They also had relatively high alternative Child-Pugh scores for dogs (median 6 out of 13).

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Portal vein and splanchnic venous thrombosis are potentially serious complications that were identified in a relatively low proportion of dogs with chronic hepatitis.

Superior Mesenteric Vein Thrombosis as a Rare Complication of Appendicitis: A Report of Two Cases

Intra-abdominal inflammatory conditions, including acute appendicitis, are a common occurrence in the emergency department. In addition to employing various imaging modalities to determine the underlying cause, the consequences of these inflammatory diseases must be assessed. Thrombosis of the superior mesenteric vein is a rare complication of acute appendicitis. It is essential to be aware of this complication as early diagnosis may improve patient prognosis given that this consequence has a high mortality rate.

Portal vein aneurysm-etiology, multimodal imaging and current management

Portal vein aneurysm (PVA) is a rare vascular abnormality, representing 3% of all venous aneurysms in the human body, and is not well understood. It can be congenital or acquired, located mainly at the level of confluence, main trunk, branches and bifurcation. A PVA as an abnormality of the portal venous system was first reported in 1956 by Barzilai and Kleckner. A review from 2015 entitled “Portal vein aneurysm: What to know” considered fewer than 200 cases. In the last seven years, there has been an increase in the number of PVAs diagnosed thanks to routine abdominal imaging. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive update of PVA, including aetiology, epidemiology, and clinical assessment, along with an evaluation of advanced multimodal imaging features of aneurysm and management approaches.

Efficacy and safety of thrombolytic therapy for portal venous system thrombosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The role of thrombolytic therapy in patients with portal venous system thrombosis (PVST) remains ambiguous. This study aimed to systematically collect available evidence and evaluate the efficacy and safety of thrombolysis for PVST.

METHODS

Eligible studies were searched via PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases. Among the cohort studies, meta-analyses were performed to assess the outcomes of PVST patients receiving thrombolysis. Pooled proportions were calculated. Among the case reports and case series, logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the risk factors for outcomes of PVST patients receiving thrombolysis. Odds ratios (ORs) were calculated.

RESULTS

Among the 2134 papers initially identified, 29 cohort studies and 131 case reports or case series were included. Based on the cohort studies, the pooled rates of overall response to thrombolytic therapy, complete recanalization of PVST, bleeding events during thrombolysis, further bowel resection, thrombosis recurrence, and 30-day mortality were 93%, 58%, 18%, 3%, 1%, and 4%, respectively. Based on the case reports and case series, acute pancreatitis (OR = 0.084), history of liver transplantation (OR = 13.346), and interval between onset of symptoms and initiation of thrombolysis ≤14 days (OR = 3.105) were significantly associated with complete recanalization of PVST; acute pancreatitis (OR = 6.556) was significantly associated with further bowel resection; but no factors associated with the overall response to thrombolytic therapy, bleeding events during thrombolysis, thrombosis recurrence, and 30-day mortality were identified or could be calculated.

CONCLUSION

Early initiation of thrombolysis should be effective for the treatment of PVST. But its benefits for PVST secondary to acute pancreatitis are weakened.

Portal Vein Thrombosis as a Cause of Undetermined Thrombocytopenia with Liver Dysfunction in a Patient with Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis

We herein report a 20-year-old woman who developed eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) and portal vein thrombosis (PVT). EGPA was diagnosed based on the patient's history of asthma, hypereosinophilia, and mononeuritis complex. Thrombocytopenia and liver dysfunction were observed, necessitating contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT), which revealed PVT. Her symptoms soon improved with glucocorticoids and anticoagulation therapy. As patients with EGPA often suffer from asthma, they can be hesitant to undergo CECT. However, if patients with EGPA show uncertain thrombocytopenia with liver dysfunction, a further evaluation using CECT is warranted to detect PVT.

Diagnosis of portal vein thrombosis in cirrhotic patients with and without hepatocellular carcinoma

Background

The levels of Annexin A5 (Annexin V) were measured in patients with and without HCC who had liver cirrhosis. These patients were followed for 12 months to determine the incidence of PVT and to determine the role of Annexin V in the diagnosis of PVT. Our goal was to look at the value of Annexin A5, platelet count, spleen size, portal flow velocity, portal vein width, Fibrosis 4, and APRI score in these individuals to see if they might be used as PVT markers.

Methods

Between March 2017 and August 2018, ninety-one HCV patients with cirrhosis with and without HCC, as well as a control group of twenty healthy people, were included in this longitudinal study at the NHTMRI. The blood anxA5 level was determined using a commercial Hyphen BioMed immunoassay using Stat Fax 4700’s Microstrip Reader l.

Results

Cirrhotic patients with and without HCC who developed PVT had higher Annexin A5 scales (5.75 + 0.18), compared to cirrhotic patients who did not develop PVT (3.63 + 1.08 (P 0.001). PVT was 20% in all cirrhotic patients after a year, 15% in cirrhotic patients without HCC, and 25% in cirrhotic patients with HCC. Cirrhotic patients who had PVT throughout the follow-up period had greater AnxA5 serum levels than cirrhotic patients who did not develop PVT.

Conclusions

In all cirrhotic patients, AnxA5 level, platelet count, spleen size, portal flow velocity, portal vein diameter, and Fibrosis 4 score might be employed as markers for PVT development.

Independent predictors and timing of portomesenteric vein thrombosis after bariatric surgery

BACKGROUND

Portomesenteric vein thrombosis (PVT) is a rare complication following bariatric surgery but can result in severe morbidity as well as death.

OBJECTIVE

Identification of risk factors for PVT to facilitate targeted management strategies to reduce incidence.

SETTING

Prospective, statewide bariatric-specific clinical registry.

METHODS

We identified all patients who underwent primary bariatric surgery between June 2006 and November 2021 (n = 102,869). Patient characteristics, procedure type, operative details, and 30-day postoperative complications were analyzed with multivariable logistic regression to evaluate for independent predictors of PVT.

RESULTS

A total of 117 patients (.11%) developed a postoperative PVT, with 6 (5.1%) associated deaths. The majority of PVTs occurred in patients who underwent sleeve gastrectomy (109 patients; 93.2%), and the PVT occurred most commonly during the second (37%), third (31%), and fourth weeks (23%) after surgery. Independent risk factors for PVT included a prior history of venous thromboembolism (odds ratio [OR] = 3.1; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.64-5.98; P = .0005), liver disorder (OR = 2.3; 95% CI: 1.36-4.00; P = .0021), undergoing sleeve gastrectomy (OR = 12.4; 95% CI: 4.98-30.69; P < .0001), and postoperative complications including obstruction (OR = 12.5; 95% CI: 4.65-33.77; P < .0001), leak (OR = 7.9; 95% CI: 2.76-22.64; P = .0001), and hemorrhage (OR = 7.6; 95% CI: 3.57-16.06; P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Independent predictors of PVT include a prior history of venous thromboembolism, liver disease, undergoing sleeve gastrectomy, and experiencing a serious postoperative complication. Given that the incidence of PVT is most common within the first month after surgery, extending postdischarge chemoprophylaxis during this time frame is advised for patients with increased risk.

Interventional Management of Portal Hypertension in Cancer Patients

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To provide an overview of the classifications and clinical hallmarks of common cancer-related conditions that contribute to the high incidence of portal hypertension in this population and provide an update on currently available interventional radiology therapeutic approaches.

RECENT FINDINGS

In the last few decades, there have been significant advancements in understanding the pathophysiology of portal hypertension. This knowledge has led to the development of safer and more effective minimally invasive approaches. The main objective is to provide alternatives to prevent life-threatening complications from clinically significant portal hypertension and to allow the continuation of cancer treatment interventions that would otherwise be stopped. Clinicians involved in cancer care should be aware of risk factors, associated complications, and management of portal hypertension in cancer patients. Interventional radiology offers minimally invasive alternatives that play a central role in improving clinical outcomes and survival of these patients, allowing the continuation of cancer treatments.

Significance of altered anticoagulant proteins and D-dimer in cirrhotic portal vein thrombosis: relation to the degree of liver dysfunction

Aim of the study

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a well-known consequence of cirrhosis. Its pathophysiology is complex, with possible downstream hepatic decompensation. This study was conducted to describe the changes of protein C (PC), protein S (PS) and D-dimer blood levels associated with PVT formation in cirrhosis and the relation to the degree of liver dysfunction.

Material and methods

This was a case-control study that included 50 cirrhotic patients who presented with acute de novo non-malignant PVT and 50 cirrhotic patients without PVT as a control group. The severity of liver disease was classified as per the Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score. Doppler ultrasonography identified acute portal vein occlusion, and dynamic contrast-enhanced computed tomography confirmed the extent and nature of PVT. Blood PC, PS and D-dimer levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

PC and PS levels were significantly lower, and the D-dimer level was significantly higher, in cirrhotic patients with PVT compared to the control group. PC and PS levels were significantly decreased in patients with higher CTP score of both groups. The D-dimer level did not vary significantly with the degree of liver dysfunction in patients of either group. PC, PS and D-dimer at the cut-off points of ≤ 77 IU/dl, ≤ 63 IU/dl, and > 300 ng/ml, respectively, significantly suggested PVT occurrence.

Conclusions

Alteration of the anticoagulant proteins and D-dimer contributed to PVT formation in cirrhotic patients and could help stratify the degree of liver dysfunction. Blood level of these hemostatic proteins could be incorporated into a probability score for early diagnosis and treatment of PVT in cirrhosis.

Primary Catheter-Directed Thrombolysis for Porto-Mesenteric Venous Thrombosis (PMVT) in Non-Cirrhotic Patients

Purpose: To report our thrombolytic technique, treatment strategy, and clinical outcomes for porto-mesenteric venous thrombosis (PMVT) in non-cirrhotic patients. Methods: Sixteen acute or chronic non-cirrhotic PMVT patients (mean age: 48.6 years) with imminent intestinal ischemia were enrolled from 2004 to 2020. Eight patients presented thrombus extension into the peripheral mesenteric vein, close to the venous arcade. Transhepatic catheter-directed thrombolysis (CDT) was performed by urokinase infusion (60,000–30,000 IU/h concomitant with heparin 300–400 IU/h), catheter aspiration, and/or balloon dilation/stent placement. Additional intra-arterial mesenteric infusion of urokinase (30,000 IU/h) was given in patients with the peripheral mesenteric venules involved. Transjugular intrahepatic porto-systemic shunt (TIPS) was created in patients with poor recanalization of the intrahepatic portal flow (PV). Results: The transhepatic route was adopted in all patients, with adjunct indirect mesenteric arterial thrombolytic infusion in eight patients. A total of up to 20.4 million IU urokinase was infused for 1–21 days’ treatment duration. TIPS was created in three patients with recanalization failure of the intrahepatic PV. Technical success was achieved in 100% of patients with complete recanalization of 80% and partial recanalization of 20%. No major procedure-related complications were encountered. The 30-day mortality rate was 6.7%. The overall two-year primary patency was 84.6%. Conclusions: CDT can be performed as a primary salvage treatment once the diagnosis is made. CDT via the transhepatic route with tailored thrombolytic regimen is safe and effective for both acute and chronic PMVT. TIPS creation can be preserved in non-cirrhotic PMVT patients if intrahepatic PV recanalization fails.

Small Bowel Perforation Secondary to Portal Vein Thrombosis

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a heterogeneous entity often described as either an acute or chronic occlusion of the portal vein or its tributaries. The clinical presentation is highly variable, and it often mimics other more common causes of abdominal pain. In most patients, imaging studies such as doppler ultrasound, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging are adequate for diagnosis. Occasionally imaging studies may be inadequate, and the diagnosis may not be made until complications such as bowel necrosis and perforation have occurred. We present a case of a morbidly obese 45-year-old female who was initially treated for suspected small bowel enteritis and discharged home on several occasions after nonspecific findings on abdominal imaging were seen and interval improvement in symptoms occurred with intravenous fluids and antibiotics. She then presented with worsening symptoms and was found on abdominal imaging to have a large fluid collection in the peritoneal cavity requiring exploratory laparotomy with peritoneal washout and partial small bowel resection due to perforation. She was diagnosed with PVT with mesenteric extension after samples of the resected mesentery were evaluated in the pathology laboratory. Her treatment included a prolonged course of antibiotics, total parenteral nutrition, and anticoagulation.

Trombose de veia porta não associada à cirrose – desafio terapêutico

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a disease in which thrombosis occurs from the intrahepatic branches of the portal vein, and may extend to the splenic vein and/or superior mesenteric vein. It is most often associated with liver cirrhosis. PVT not associated with cirrhosis is rare. The aim of this article is to report two cases of PVT in which it was not associated with cirrhosis. Both were treated with anticoagulation and clinical progress afterwards was good.

A Case of Idiopathic Portal Vein Thrombosis in an Immunocompetent Female

Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is characterized by a complete or partial occlusion of the portal vein by a thrombus. The formation of the thrombus is usually attributed to an underlying condition that is causing a hypercoagulable state, such as malignancy or cirrhosis. When these causes are ruled out, a hypercoagulable workup can reveal other underlying prothrombotic etiologies. Still, some cases of PVT occur without any definitive underlying condition, leading to the diagnosis of idiopathic PVT. This occurred in our patient, a 53-year-old female who presented with PVT but had no clear underlying condition that led to her pathology after an extensive medical investigation.

Meta-analysis and systematic review: Prevalence, graft failure, mortality, and post-operative thrombosis in liver transplant recipients with pre-operative portal vein thrombosis

AIMS

This study seeks to evaluate the association between pre-transplant portal vein thrombosis (PVT) and overall survival, graft failure, waitlist mortality, and post-operative PVT after liver transplantation.

METHODS

A conventional pairwise meta-analysis between patients with and without pre-transplant PVT was conducted using hazard ratios or odds ratios where appropriate.

RESULTS

Prevalence of preoperative PVT was 11.6% (CI 9.70-13.7%). Pre-operative PVT was associated with increased overall mortality (HR 1.45, 95% CI 1.27-1.65) and graft loss (HR 1.58, 95% CI 1.34-1.85). In particular, grade 3 (HR 1.59, 95% CI 1.00-2.51) and 4 (HR 2.24, 95% CI 1.45-3.45) PVT significantly increased mortality, but not grade 1 or 2 PVT. Patients with PVT receiving living donor (HR 1.54, 95% CI 1.24-1.91) and deceased donor (HR 1.52, 95% CI 1.21-1.92) liver transplantation had increased mortality, with no significant difference between transplant types (P = .13). Furthermore, pre-transplant PVT was associated with higher occurrence of post-transplant PVT (OR 5.06, 95% CI 3.89-6.57). Waitlist mortality was not significantly increased in patients with pre-transplant PVT.

CONCLUSION

Graft failure, mortality, and post-operative PVT are more common in pre-transplant PVT patients, especially in grade 3 or 4 PVT. Prophylactic anticoagulation can be considered to reduce re-thrombosis and improve survival.

Portal Vein Thrombosis: Diagnosis and Endovascular Management

BACKGROUND

 Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is a rare but severe entity that can cause clinically significant sequela such as worsening portal hypertension or mesenteric ischemia. Those cases refractory to medical management may be referred for endovascular intervention. Several technical considerations have been described in the literature, but a cohesive comparison of these multiple techniques is lacking.

METHODS

 The purpose of this article is to review the diagnosis and endovascular management of PVT, including areas in which further research is warranted.

RESULTS

 Cases of PVT can be readily diagnosed using ultrasound, computed tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging. Treatment often begins with systemic anticoagulation and endovascular interventions may be used in selected cases. Determining the optimal approach to accessing the portal venous system depends on the underlying disease and chronicity of the thrombus and the degree of occlusion. Once access to the portal venous system is established, catheter-directed therapy may be performed to achieve recanalization.

CONCLUSION

 Despite the heterogeneity in patient presentation, cases of PVT can be readily diagnosed across several imaging modalities. Strategizing interventional approaches involves evaluation of the underlying disease and the chronicity of the thrombus.

KEY POINTS

  · This review will enable interventionalists to establish a framework for treating portal vein thrombosis by identifying patient risk factors and thrombus characteristics that determine patient management.. · The unique risks and benefits for transhepatic, transsplenic, and transmesenteric approaches for establishing portal venous access will be discussed.. · Advantages and complications of thrombolysis, thrombectomy, and transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt creation for treating portal vein thrombosis will be reviewed in detail based on our extensive institutional experience..

CITATION FORMAT

· Ju C, Li X, Gadani S et al. Portal Vein Thrombosis: Diagnosis and Endovascular Management. Fortschr Röntgenstr 2021; DOI: 10.1055/a-1642-0990.

Maternal and neonatal outcomes in extra hepatic portal vein obstruction: Our experience

Background:

Women with Extra hepatic portal vein obstruction (EHPVO) are mostly young and belong to Asian countries. In the Indian subcontinent, 20–30% variceal bleeds are caused by EHPVO. Hence pregnancy is a concern in such patients. The objective of this study is to observe the maternal and neonatal outcomes in women with EHPVO.

Materials and Method:

Extra hepatic portal vein obstruction was studied retrospectively in 28 pregnancies in 20 women from Jan 2011 to July 2018 at a tertiary hospital in South India and the pregnancy outcomes were observed during this period. Institutional Review Board approval obtained.

Results:

The mean age of the women was 24.3 years and the mean age of diagnosis was 18.5 years. Splenomegaly, thrombocytopenia and anaemia were seen in 22 (78.5%), 17 (60.7%) and 8 (28.5%) of pregnancies, respectively. Rate of abortions and preterm deliveries were 2 (7.1%, n =28) and 10 (35.7%, n =28). There was one stillbirth (3.6%) in the study group. EHPVO was diagnosed in 25 (89.3%) women prenatally in our series. During pregnancy only one woman had variceal bleed, which was managed conservatively. Blood and blood product transfusion was required in 7(25%) of women and there was no maternal mortality.

Conclusion:

Pregnancies in EHPVO have good maternal and neonatal outcomes, provided they are taken care of by a multidisciplinary approach in a tertiary care centre.

Portomesenteric Vein Thrombosis after Bariatric Surgery: An Online Survey

Portomesenteric vein thrombosis (PMVT) is a rare post-operative complication of bariatric procedures, occurring in between 0.3% and 1% of cases. A structured questionnaire consisting of 27 items was available online to members of the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) to investigate the occurrence of PMVT. A total of 89 bariatric surgeons from 61 countries participated. Twenty-six (29.21%) reported at least one case of PMVT (46.15% males; 53.84% females). The surgery most associated with PMVT occurrence was sleeve gastrectomy (84.6%), followed by Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) (7.69%), and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) (7.69%). The time gap between surgery and PMVT was 19.28 ± 8.72 days. The predominant symptom was abdominal pain in 96.15% of patients, followed by fever in 26.9%. Complete occlusion of the portal vein was reported in 34.6% of cases, with involvement of the portal system in 69%, extension to the superior mesenteric district in 23%, and extension to the splenic vein in two patients (7.7%). Our survey, which is the largest regarding PMVT to date, revealed a diffuse lack of standardization in the choice, duration, and dosing of prophylaxis regimens as well as treatment modalities, reflecting the literature gap on the topic.

Ischemic bowel disease in 2021

Ischemic bowel disease (ISBODI) includes colon ischemia, acute mesenteric ischemia (AMI) and chronic mesenteric ischemia (CMI). Epidemiologically, colon ischemia is the most common type followed by AMI and CMI. There are various risk factors for the development of ISBODI. Abdominal pain is the common presenting symptom of each type. High clinical suspicion is essential in ordering appropriate tests. Imaging studies and colonoscopy with biopsy are the main diagnostic tests. Treatment varies from conservative measures to surgical resection and revascularization. Involvement of multidisciplinary team is essential in managing ISBODI. Although open surgery with revascularization plays an important role, recently there is an increasing interest in percutaneous endovascular treatment.

Role of Ultrasound for Chronic Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma Surveillance

Ultrasound plays a vital role in the evaluation of patients with chronic liver disease and in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) surveillance in populations at risk for developing HCC. Semiannual ultrasound for HCC surveillance is universally recommended by all liver societies around the world. Advanced ultrasound techniques, such as elastography and contrast-enhanced ultrasound, offer additional benefits in imaging evaluation of chronic liver disease. Major benefits of ultrasound include its high safety profile and relatively low cost.

Diagnosis and Therapeutic Management of Liver Fibrosis by MicroRNA

Remarkable progress has been made in the treatment and control of hepatitis B and C viral infections. However, fundamental treatments for diseases in which liver fibrosis is a key factor, such as cirrhosis, alcoholic/nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, autoimmune hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, and primary sclerosing cholangitis, are still under development and remain an unmet medical need. To solve this problem, it is essential to elucidate the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis in detail from a molecular and cellular perspective and to develop targeted therapeutic agents based on this information. Recently, microRNAs (miRNAs), functional RNAs of 22 nucleotides, have been shown to be involved in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. In addition, extracellular vesicles called "exosomes" have been attracting attention, and research is being conducted to establish noninvasive and extremely sensitive biomarkers using miRNAs in exosomes. In this review, we summarize miRNAs directly involved in liver fibrosis, miRNAs associated with diseases leading to liver fibrosis, and miRNAs related to complications of cirrhosis. We will also discuss the efficacy of each miRNA as a biomarker of liver fibrosis and pathology, and its potential application as a therapeutic agent.

t-PA power-pulse spray with rheolytic mechanical thrombectomy using cross-sectional image-guided portal vein access for single setting treatment of subacute superior mesenteric vein thrombosis

Background:

Isolated superior mesenteric vein (SMV) thrombosis is a rare but potentially fatal condition if untreated. Current treatments include transjugular or transhepatic approaches for rheolytic mechanical thrombectomy and subsequent infusions of thrombolytics. Tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) power-pulse spray can provide benefit in a single setting without thrombolytic infusions. Computed tomography (CT) guidance for portal vein access is underutilized in this setting.

Materials and Methods:

Case 1 discusses acute SMV thrombosis treated with rheolytic mechanical thrombectomy alone using ultrasound guidance for portal vein access. Case 2 discusses subacute SMV thrombosis treated with the addition of t-PA power-pulse spray to the rheolytic mechanical thrombectomy, using CT guidance for portal vein access.

Results:

With rheolytic mechanical thrombectomy alone, the patient in Case 1 had significant improvement in abdominal pain. Follow-up CT demonstrated no residual SMV thrombosis and the patient continued to do well in long-term follow-up. With the addition of t-PA power-pulse spray to rheolytic mechanical thrombectomy, the patient in Case 2 with subacute SMV thrombosis dramatically improved postprocedure with resolution of abdominal pain. Follow-up imaging demonstrated patency to the SMV and partial resolution of thrombus. The patient continued to do well at 2-year follow-up.

Conclusions:

Adding t-PA power-pulse spray to rheolytic mechanical thrombectomy can provide benefit in a single setting versus mechanical thrombectomy alone and prevent the need for subsequent infusions of thrombolytic therapy. CT guidance is a useful alternative of localization for portal vein access via the transhepatic route that is nonoperator-dependent and helpful in the case of obese patients.

Diagnosis and management of extrahepatic oesophageal variceal bleed in children in a low resourced setting

Extrahepatic portal vein obstruction (EHPVO) is a major cause of portal hypertension (PH) in children. Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) is the most common cause accounting for up to 75% of cases in developing countries. Upper gastrointestinal bleeding is the most dreaded and commonest presentation of portal hypertension. Successful treatment of paediatric PH, though challenging is performed in resource constraint countries.

Hemorheological Alteration in Patients with Cirrhosis Clinically Diagnosed with Portal Vein System Thrombosis After Splenectomy

Background

Portal vein system thrombosis (PVST) is a common and serious complication after splenectomy. Key factors, including wider diameters of the portal vein, decreased liver function, and high flow volume of portosystemic collateral vessel, are recognized PVST risks. Relationships between PVST and altered hemorheology, including increased plasma viscosity, remain unclear. We investigated hemorheological alterations and explored risk factors of PVST in patients with cirrhosis after splenectomy.

Material/Methods

Data on patients with cirrhosis who underwent splenectomy were collected retrospectively from January 2018 to June 2020. Color Doppler ultrasonography was performed after splenectomy. Hemorheological indexes were compared between groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was conducted to analyze risk factor cutoff values. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to explore risk factors of PVST.

Results

A total of 50 patients were divided into a PVST group (n=30) and control group (n=20). Hemorheological indexes of activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen degradation products (FDP), D-dimer, middle shear rates 50 and 30, low shear rates 5 and 1, and hematocrit in the PVST group were significantly higher than those of the control group (P<0.05). FDP and low shear rate 1 were found to be risk factors of PVST after splenectomy by multivariate analysis. ROC analysis showed that the cutoff points for FDP and low shear rate 1 were ≥38.6 ug/mL and ≥16.855 mPa.s, respectively.

Conclusions

PVST after splenectomy is closely related to hemorheological alteration. FDP and low shear rate 1 may be valuable markers of PVST.

Influence of portal vein occlusion on portal flow and liver elasticity in an animal model

Hepatic fibrosis causes an increase in liver stiffness, a parameter measured by elastography and widely used as a diagnosis method. The concomitant presence of portal vein thrombosis (PVT) implies a change in hepatic portal inflow that could also affect liver elasticity. The main objective of this study is to determine the extent to which the presence of portal occlusion can affect the mechanical properties of the liver and potentially lead to misdiagnosis of fibrosis and hepatic cirrhosis by elastography. Portal vein occlusion was generated by insertion and inflation of a balloon catheter in the portal vein of four swines. The portal flow parameters peak flow (PF) and peak velocity magnitude (PVM) and liver mechanical properties (shear modulus) were then investigated using 4D-flow MRI and MR elastography, respectively, for progressive obstructions of the portal vein. Experimental results indicate that the reduction of the intrahepatic venous blood flow (PF/PVM decreases of 29.3%/8.5%, 51.0%/32.3% and 83.3%/53.6%, respectively) measured with 50%, 80% and 100% obstruction of the portal vein section results in a decrease of liver stiffness by 0.8% ± 0.1%, 7.7% ± 0.4% and 12.3% ± 0.9%, respectively. While this vascular mechanism does not have sufficient influence on the elasticity of the liver to modify the diagnosis of severe fibrosis or cirrhosis (F4 METAVIR grade), it may be sufficient to attenuate the increase in stiffness due to moderate fibrosis (F2-F3 METAVIR grades) and consequently lead to false-negative diagnoses with elastography in the presence of PVT.

Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants in the treatment of portal vein thrombosis

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of direct oral anticoagulants vs. warfarin for portal vein thrombosis treatment.

METHODS

This was a single-center, retrospective study. Adult patients initiated on a direct oral anticoagulant or warfarin for treatment of a new portal vein thrombosis were included. The primary failure outcome was the absolute difference in recurrent thromboembolic events 90 days following initiation of a direct oral anticoagulant vs. warfarin. The primary safety outcome was the absolute difference in bleeding events 90 days following initiation of a direct oral anticoagulant vs. warfarin. Descriptive statistics, Fisher's exact, and Student's t-tests were utilized as appropriate.

RESULTS

Thirty-three patients were included. Thirteen (39.4%) patients received direct oral anticoagulants, and 20 (60.6%) received warfarin. None of the patients receiving direct oral anticoagulants experienced a primary failure event compared to four receiving warfarin (P < 0.001). None of the patients receiving direct oral anticoagulants experienced a primary safety event vs. one receiving warfarin (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Direct oral anticoagulants appear to be effective and safe in the treatment of portal vein thrombosis and in preventing recurrent thromboembolic events. Future studies with larger sample sizes are warranted to confirm direct oral anticoagulants' efficacy in portal vein thrombosis.

Impact of Portal Vein Thrombosis on Endoscopic Variceal Band Ligation in Liver Cirrhosis

Background. Portal vein (PV) thrombosis (PVT) is a common complication of liver cirrhosis and can refer to thrombosis within the PV that can extend to its left or right branches and in some cases to the superior mesenteric vein or the splenic vein (Chawla and Bodh, 2015). For severe PVT patients, there are possibilities of increasing PV resistance and reduction of the blood flow though PV towards liver, which exacerbate liver function damage meanwhile elevating the gastrointestinal variceal bleeding risk. Endoscopic Variceal band ligation (EVL) is often used to prevent esophageal variceal bleeding; postoperative complications such as severe gastrointestinal bleeding and bleeding-related death, fever, retrosternal pain, and esophageal stenosis may appear. There was absence of the research which evaluated the impact of PVT in liver cirrhosis on the complication of endoscopic Variceal band ligation for now. We herein aimed to compare cirrhosis patients with and without PVT of recent complications after EVL. Method. We established the retrospective investigation on 144 consecutive cirrhosis patients (excluding patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and who received portal vein-systemic circulation devascularization or shunt surgery, splenectomy, hepatectomy, liver transplantation, transjugular intrahepatic portal vein stent shunt (TIPS), endoscopic varices Variceal ligation, or sclerotherapy before) who have received first endoscopic esophageal varices band ligation in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy Center of the First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, ZheJiang University, between January 2014 and December 2017. Portal vein Doppler ultrasonography, liver computerized tomography (CT), and angiography or liver-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were applied to evaluate the portal vein thrombosis of each patient before EVL. There were 18 patients confirmed with portal vein thrombosis while the other 126 patients without PVT. The primary end point for this research is the upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage and related death occurred from the date of ligation until leaving hospital, and the secondary end point is the appearance of postoperative fever and retrosternal pain. Results. There are no significant differences of gastrointestinal bleeding, bleeding-related death, fever, or retrosternal pain after EVL and the length of hospital stays between cirrhotic patients with or without PVT ( $P=0.34,0.51,0.58,0.61,0.88$ ). Conclusion. Liver cirrhosis with portal vein thrombosis did not increase incidence of recent complications of the endoscopic Variceal band ligation.

Portomesenteric venous thrombosis in a postmenopausal female with testosterone implant: a case report

Background

Acute portal vein thrombosis is a rare medical event usually seen in liver disease, but it can also occur due to any inherited or acquired procoagulable state that triggers venous occlusion. Hormonal therapies have been associated with an increased risk of prothrombotic states. This case report documents a portomesenteric venous thrombosis in a postmenopausal woman with testosterone implant for the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire and discusses the importance of identifying hypercoagulable risk factors before initiating hormone replacement therapy. We want to improve the awareness of an unusual medical complication associated with hormone replacement therapy and shed light on how testosterone implants could facilitate a thrombotic event related to other risk factors such as obesity and chronic hypoxic states, as well as the importance of differential diagnosis in the evaluation of postmenopausal women on testosterone replacement therapy presenting with acute abdominal pain.

Case presentation

A 55-year-old obese postmenopausal Hispanic female with medical history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease presents with intractable abdominal pain, is found to have elevated hemoglobin and hematocrit, and an abdominopelvic computed tomography scan revealing portal and superior mesenteric vein thrombosis. Further evaluation excluded inherited and acquired thrombophilia but revealed elevated testosterone levels. The patient was treated with anticoagulation, which resulted in recanalization of the portal and superior mesenteric veins.

Conclusion

Supraphysiologic levels of testosterone caused by testosterone implants as a treatment of hypoactive sexual desire in postmenopausal women can contribute to thrombotic events in the presence of additional prothrombotic risk factors. Therefore, testosterone therapy should include a thorough risk assessment for prothrombotic states, be tailored to patients’ physiologic testosterone levels, and have close follow-up with testosterone level monitoring.