The management of portal hypertension has dramatically changed over the past 15 years. Outstanding results can now be achieved by selective applications of particular therapies and appropriate patient selection.From natural history to pharmacologic, endoscopic, radiologic and surgical management, this work emphasizes how the new therapeutics of portal hypertension should be used based on published data, not local philosophy. In a comprehensive and multi-disciplinary manner, this book describes strategies used by gastroenterologists, radiologists and surgeons, beginning with the least invasive. Variceal banding, TIPS, liver transplants and surgical shunts are evaluated in a manner that would optimize patient outcome. Discussed with supportive data and refreshing clarity from each of the disciplines, this book concludes with a focus on current algorithms, as a general guide, for clinical decision-making in patients with portal hypertension.No longer does this field have to live with therapeutic failure as more patients live due to successful therapy selection and treatment. This book is a timely guide for primary caregivers, surgeons, hepatologists, invasive radiologists and medical students.
