Ultrasound demonstration of changes in the normal portal venous system following a meal

Abstract

Eating might be expected to change vessel size within the portal venous system. The diameters of the portal and superior mesenteric veins were measured in thirteen normal individuals using B-mode ultrasound, initially fasting and then following a meal. We have shown a 50% increase in the diameter of both these vessels occurring between thirty minutes and one hour after a meal. The significance of this is discussed.