Portal vein abnormalities: an imaging review

Abstract

The portal vein is the main vascular channel of the liver and is affected by many pathologies. Imaging plays an important role in the detection and characterization of these abnormalities, guiding the surgeon and the interventional radiologist in planning further management. We discuss the imaging appearances of various abnormalities affecting the portal vein and the imaging modalities used in their diagnosis. We also briefly discuss the radiological interventions done in some of these cases.

Keywords: Abernathy malformation; Portal vein; Portal vein anomalies; Portal vein embolization; Portal vein variations; TIPS.