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Portal Vein Thrombosis

Portal vein thrombosis occurs when a clot blocks the vein that carries blood from your digestive organs to the liver. This can lead to abdominal pain, swelling, and impaired liver function. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications.

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Bharat Pothuri

About the Expert

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Cirrhosis and other chronic liver diseases
  • Abdominal infections or inflammation (e.g., pancreatitis, diverticulitis)
  • Liver or pancreatic cancer
  • Inherited or acquired blood-clotting disorders
  • Recent abdominal surgery or trauma
  • Long-term use of intravenous catheters
  • Family history of thrombotic conditions

Signs and Symptoms

  • Often none in early stages
  • Sudden or severe abdominal pain
  • Abdominal swelling or a feeling of fullness
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fever or chills
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
  • Enlarged spleen (splenomegaly)
  • Swelling in the legs (edema)

Expert Treatment for Portal Vein Thrombosis by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Pothuri uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Exam

He reviews your symptoms-especially epigastric pain, nausea, or fullness-along with any history of liver disease, clotting disorders, abdominal infections, surgery, or family clotting tendencies.

Blood Tests

We check liver function tests (AST, ALT, bilirubin), complete blood count, coagulation profile (PT/INR, aPTT), and inflammatory markers to assess clotting risk and liver health.

Imaging Studies

  • Doppler Ultrasound evaluates blood flow in the portal vein and can directly visualize thrombus formation.
  • Contrast-enhanced CT or MRI provides detailed anatomy of the portal venous system, shows extent and location of clots, and detects collateral vessels.

Advanced Testing (if needed)

In selected cases, a transjugular portal pressure measurement or even a targeted liver biopsy may be performed to confirm diagnosis, gauge portal hypertension, and guide treatment planning.

Bharat Pothuri
Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for portal vein thrombosis.

1. Healthy Habits and Lifestyle Changes

  • Drink plenty of water to support healthy blood flow
  • Eat a balanced diet with fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
  • Avoid salty foods and alcohol to reduce portal pressure
  • Engage in light exercise like walking to enhance circulation

2. Medications

  • Anticoagulants to stop the clot from growing
  • Beta-blockers to lower pressure in the portal vein
  • Diuretics to reduce swelling by eliminating excess fluid

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • TIPS (Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt) to bypass the blocked vein
  • Thrombolysis for targeted clot-dissolving therapy
  • Endoscopic treatment of varices if swollen veins develop
1.5K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1.5k patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is portal vein thrombosis diagnosed?

Portal vein thrombosis is diagnosed using imaging tests such as Doppler ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI to visualize blood flow and clots. Blood tests are also performed to assess clotting factors and liver function.

What is the ICD-10 code for this condition?

The ICD-10 code for portal vein thrombosis is I82.0, which is used for billing, insurance, and medical record-keeping purposes.

What treatments are available?

Treatment options include anticoagulant medications to prevent clot growth, beta-blockers to reduce portal pressure, diuretics for fluid management, and, if needed, advanced procedures like TIPS or thrombolysis to restore blood flow.

Can diet make a difference?

Yes. A low-salt, high-fiber diet supports liver health, minimizes fluid retention, and complements medical therapy in managing portal vein thrombosis.

What is the life outlook for people with this condition?

Prognosis depends on underlying causes and promptness of treatment. Many patients do well when diagnosed early and managed appropriately.

When should I see a doctor?

Seek medical attention if you experience sudden abdominal pain, swelling, nausea, or have known clotting risk factors. Early evaluation is key to preventing complications.

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