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Portal Vein Thrombosis
Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) occurs when a clot obstructs the vessel carrying blood from the intestines to the liver, threatening organ function. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott provides diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and advanced interventions to manage PVT effectively.
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
Liver cirrhosis or chronic liver disease
Intra-abdominal infections or inflammation
Inherited or acquired blood-clotting disorders
Recent abdominal surgery or trauma
Malignancies, especially liver or pancreatic cancer
Long-term use of hormonal therapies or birth control
Signs and Symptoms
Often no symptoms in early stages
Abdominal pain or tenderness
Nausea, vomiting, or feeling bloated
Unexplained weight loss
Swelling of the abdomen (ascites) or legs
Fever if there is an associated infection
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Portal Vein Thrombosis?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He discusses your symptoms-especially epigastric or abdominal pain, swelling, digestive changes-and reviews your personal and family history of liver disease, clotting disorders, alcohol use, surgeries or infections.
Blood Tests
Lab work includes liver function panels, complete blood count, coagulation studies (PT/INR, aPTT) and tests for inherited thrombophilias.
Imaging Studies
Doppler Ultrasound to assess portal vein blood flow and visualize any thrombus.
Contrast-enhanced CT or MRI for detailed mapping of the clot's size, location and effects on surrounding vessels.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
In select cases, catheter-based venography or specialized clotting panels help guide interventional planning or detect rare clotting disorders.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for portal vein thrombosis.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Daily walking or light activity to improve blood flow
Increased intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Hydration strategies and avoidance of alcohol
2. Medications
Anticoagulants to treat or prevent further clotting
Supportive liver‐health medications
Analgesics or anti‐nausea drugs as needed
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
TIPS (Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt) to bypass the clot
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 vein thrombosis?
The ICD-10 code for portal vein thrombosis is I81.
When should I see a doctor?
If you experience unexplained belly pain, swelling, nausea, or vomiting, contact our Houston clinic promptly for evaluation.
What is life expectancy with portal vein thrombosis?
With early diagnosis and proper management, many patients live full lives. Prognosis depends on liver health and timely treatment.
Can portal vein thrombosis cause long-term problems?
Yes. Without treatment, PVT can lead to variceal bleeding, ascites (fluid buildup), and progressive liver damage.
How can I lower my risk of portal vein thrombosis?
Manage underlying liver disease, prevent abdominal infections, follow clot-prevention protocols after surgery, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
What treatments are available for portal vein thrombosis?
We offer anticoagulant medications, dietary and lifestyle guidance, and advanced procedures like TIPS or catheter-directed clot removal when needed.
Will I need long-term blood thinners?
Some patients require extended anticoagulation. Dr. Scott will assess your individual clotting risk to determine the optimal duration.
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