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Portal Hypertension
Discover comprehensive portal hypertension care in Houston with Dr. Scott at GastroDoxs. Early diagnosis and personalized treatment-from lifestyle changes and medications to advanced procedures like TIPS-can prevent complications, improve liver function, and enhance your quality of life under expert guidance.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Cirrhosis (scarring of the liver from long‐term damage)
Portal vein thrombosis (blood clot in the portal vein)
Schistosomiasis (parasitic infection affecting the liver)
Chronic hepatitis B or C infections
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
Heavy or long‐term alcohol use
Signs and Symptoms
Esophageal or gastric varices (swollen veins that can bleed)
Caput medusae (visible, dilated veins on the abdomen)
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Portal Hypertension
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He asks about your symptoms, including the onset, intensity, and possible triggers, along with alcohol use, prior liver disease, and other risk factors.
He palpates your abdomen to check for tenderness, liver enlargement, spleen size, and fluid accumulation.
Blood Tests
We evaluate liver enzymes (AST, ALT), platelet count, bilirubin, albumin, and coagulation profiles to assess liver function and look for indirect signs of portal hypertension.
Imaging Studies
Ultrasound with Doppler checks portal vein diameter and blood flow, detects ascites, and measures spleen size.
CT scan or MRI offers detailed views of liver architecture, collateral vessels, and nodular changes.
Endoscopy
An upper endoscopy inspects the esophagus and stomach for varices or red signs that indicate bleeding risk.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
When clarification is needed, Dr. Scott may measure the hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) to quantify portal pressure or perform a liver biopsy to stage fibrosis and inflammation.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for portal hypertension.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Personalized meal plans to reduce salt intake and limit fluid buildup
Dietary guidance on healthy proteins and reducing unhealthy fats
Support for alcohol abstinence and weight management to preserve liver function
2. Medications
Nonselective beta-blockers to lower pressure in the portal vein
Diuretics to help your body eliminate excess fluid (ascites)
Lactulose to manage confusion and other symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) to decompress the portal circulation
Endoscopic variceal ligation (rubber-banding) to prevent or control bleeding in the esophagus or stomach
Paracentesis for safe, outpatient removal of excess abdominal fluid
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ICD-10 code for portal hypertension?
The correct code is K76.6.
How does Dr. Scott diagnose it?
He uses a physical exam, ultrasound with Doppler, CT or MRI scans, endoscopy, and blood tests to assess liver function and portal pressure.
Can changes in diet help?
Yes. A low-salt diet, adequate protein, healthy fats, and complete alcohol avoidance can reduce fluid buildup and support liver health.
What can happen if it's not treated?
Untreated portal hypertension can lead to variceal bleeding, ascites (fluid in the abdomen), infections, encephalopathy (confusion), and other serious complications.
Is TIPS a safe option?
For many patients, a Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) is effective and safe. Dr. Scott will review the benefits and potential risks with you.
How often will I need to return?
Follow-up visits are typically scheduled every three to six months, depending on your condition and treatment response.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. We use the correct medical codes for billing and work with most insurance plans to ensure your care is covered.
