Spectrum of hepatofugal collateral pathways in portal hypertension: an illustrated radiological review

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to describe the various portosystemic collateral pathways pertinent to portal hypertension on multi-detector row computed tomography (MDCT) and their clinical relevance, with special emphasis on the uncommon ones. The knowledge and understanding of the various patterns of portosystemic collateral channels has important implications both for the clinician and the interventionist. MDCT with its advanced post processing capabilities can exquisitely demonstrate these vascular pathways to help in therapeutic decision making. Teaching points • Portosystemic collaterals are an important cause of bleeding and hepatic encephalopathy. • Radiologists should be familiar with the imaging findings to effectively identify them. • Pre-operative knowledge of portosystemic collaterals is essential to avoid inadvertent vascular injury.