Portal Hypertension

Portal hypertension is a condition characterized by increased blood pressure within the portal venous system, which carries blood from the digestive organs to the liver. This condition occurs when there is a blockage or increased resistance in the liver’s blood flow, often due to liver diseases such as cirrhosis, fibrosis, or blood clots. Over time, portal hypertension can lead to severe complications such as variceal bleeding, ascites (fluid buildup), and splenomegaly (enlarged spleen). At Emirates Hospitals Group, we offer comprehensive diagnosis, management, and treatment for patients with portal hypertension.

Causes of c

The primary cause of portal hypertension is liver cirrhosis, which results from chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or alcohol-related liver damage. As the liver becomes scarred, it obstructs normal blood flow, causing pressure to rise in the portal vein. Other causes include:

• Blood Clots: Blockages in the portal or splenic veins can lead to increased pressure.
• Schistosomiasis: A parasitic infection that can damage the liver and its blood vessels.
• Congenital Conditions: Some patients may be born with abnormalities in the portal venous system that contribute to portal hypertension.

Symptoms of Portal Hypertension

Portal hypertension often does not present symptoms in its early stages, but as the condition progresses, patients may experience:

• Gastrointestinal Bleeding: Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools due to bleeding varices (enlarged veins) in the esophagus or stomach.
• Ascites: Accumulation of fluid in the abdomen, causing discomfort and difficulty breathing.
• Enlarged Spleen: Leading to low blood cell counts (anemia, low platelets, and white blood cells).
• Hepatic Encephalopathy: Confusion, forgetfulness, or drowsiness due to the liver’s inability to filter toxins from the blood.

Diagnosis of Portal Hypertension

At Emirates Hospitals Group, we use advanced diagnostic tools to accurately assess portal hypertension. These may include:

• Endoscopy: To detect varices in the esophagus or stomach.
• Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI to visualize the portal venous system and detect any blockages or liver abnormalities.
• Liver Function Tests: Blood tests to evaluate liver health and function.

Treatment Options of Portal Hypertension

The treatment for portal hypertension at Emirates Hospitals Group is aimed at managing symptoms, preventing complications, and addressing the underlying cause. Treatment options include:

Endoscopic Procedures

• • Endoscopic Variceal Band Ligation (EVL): A procedure where bands are applied to bleeding varices to prevent further bleeding.
  • Sclerotherapy: Injection of a solution into varices to stop bleeding.

Surgical Interventions

• • Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS): A minimally invasive procedure that creates a new pathway for blood to flow through the liver, reducing pressure in the portal vein.
  • Liver Transplant: In severe cases of cirrhosis or liver failure, a liver transplant may be the best option to restore normal liver function and resolve portal hypertension.

Why Choose Emirates Hospitals Group?

At Emirates Hospitals Group, we take a multidisciplinary approach to treating portal hypertension. Our expert team of hepatologists, gastroenterologists, and surgeons collaborates to provide personalized care plans for each patient. With state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment technologies, we are committed to ensuring the best possible outcomes for patients suffering from portal hypertension.