Application of MR portography in surgical diagnosis and therapy of portal hypertension

Objective:To evaluate the availability of MR portography(MRP) in surgery of portal hypertension. Methods: MRP was analyzed and compared to the findings of the operations in 32 patients with portal hypertension. Results: Of the 32 cases, 30 showed clear portographs, while 2 with obscure imaging had thrombosis or spongioid lesion of the portal vein. The left gastric vein of all cases became dilated and tortuous to a various degree. Stricture of the superior mesenteric vein in one case was confirmed during operation. At the same time, atrophy of the liver and enlargement of the spleen were also observed in MRP. Conclusion: MRP is a rapid and noninvasive technique for assessment of portal venous system. It can provide an intact and clear portograph, which facilitates the selection of a better operative modality and approach.