An Overview of Surgical Management of Portal Hypertension in Children

Abstract

AbstractPediatric portal hypertension is a relatively rare but a life-threatening problem. With advancements in understanding of portal hypertension physiology and lessons learned from management in adults, medical management is playing an increasing role. However, certain conditions are amenable to surgical management. Key considerations for surgical options are state of liver parenchyma and preservation of liver function. In cases of extrahepatic portal vein obstruction, Meso-Rex bypass or shunt can offer a long-term solution. Similarly in select group of patients, selective or central shunts can be considered. With advancement in liver transplantation, there are very few indications for non-transplant surgical procedures for the management of portal hypertension.