Portacaval anastomosis
A portacaval anastomosis is a specific type of anastomosis that occurs between the veins of the portal circulation and those of the systemic circulation.
The inferior end of the esophagus and the superior part of the rectum are potential sites of a harmful portacaval anastomosis.
In portal hypertension, as in the case of cirrhosis of the liver, the anastomoses become congested and form venous dilatations. Such dilatation can lead to esophageal varices and anorectal varices. Caput medusae can also result.Presentation
Clinical presentations of portal hypertension include:
A dilated inferior mesenteric vein may or may not be related to portal hypertension.
Other areas of anastomosis include the bare area of the liver as it connects to the diaphragm; the posterior portion of the gastrointestinal tract as it touches the posterior abdominal wall; the posterior surface of the pancreas, and the inferior part of the esophagus.
