Anatomy
Course
Formed when the splenic and superior mesenteric veins merge behind the pancreas. It ascends to the liver, passing posterior to the superior duodenum. It divides into right and left branches as it enters the liver.
Drain
Brings blood for detoxification from the gastrointestinal system to the liver, where it rejoins the
systemic circulation.
Clinical
Portal hypertension can result from liver disease. This high blood pressure in the portal vein can result in a backup of blood into the gastrointestinal venous system and can result in conditions such as esophageal varices, caput medusae, or hemorrhoids.
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