The ultrasonic demonstration of portacaval and interposition mesocaval shunts

Abstract

Abstract This study demonstrates direct as well as indirect ultrasonic signs of shunt patency in 11 patients with end-to-side portacaval or prosthetic interposition mesocaval shunts. The shunt was visualized in 8 of the 11 patients. Dilation of the inferior vena cava was demonstrated in 7 out of 11 patients, and an increased diameter of the superior mesenteric vein was observed in all of the 7 patients with a mesocaval shunt.