Hepatic Portal Hypertension

Portal hypertension is defined as elevated pressure in the portal venous system, most commonly caused by cirrhosis. On Doppler ultrasound, portal hypertension manifests as reduced portal vein velocity (normal >16 cm/s), bidirectional (to-and-fro) flow, or complete reversal of portal flow (hepatofugal flow). Associated findings include splenomegaly, ascites, and portosystemic collateral vessels (varices). Doppler evaluation of the portal system is a routine component of liver ultrasound in patients with known or suspected liver disease.