Portal Hypertension & Variceal Bleeding

Portal hypertension is a major consequence of chronic liver disease and underlies many of the life-threatening complications of cirrhosis. Elevated portal pressure leads to the development of gastroesophageal varices, ascites, splenomegaly, and portosystemic shunting. Variceal bleeding remains one of the most serious complications, associated with significant morbidity and mortality despite advances in care. Improved understanding of portal hemodynamics has led to more effective preventive and therapeutic strategies. Non-selective beta-blockers, endoscopic variceal ligation, and early risk stratification are central to current management. Interventional radiology techniques and shunt procedures play an important role in refractory cases. This topic highlights advances in diagnosis, prevention, and management of portal hypertension and variceal bleeding, with an emphasis on reducing bleeding risk and improving patient outcomes.