Imaging of congenital abnormalities of the portal venous system.

Abstract

Although congenital abnormalities of the portal venous system are uncommon, they are sometimes encountered incidentally because of the widespread use of cross-sectional imaging techniques. These abnormalities include the preduodenal portal vein. duplication of the portal vein, portal vein aneurysm, rotation of the superior mesenteric vein. variations in portal venous tributaries, intrahepatic portosystemic venous shunts, and mesenteric vascular malformations. This pictorial essay illustrates the normal anatomy and the congenital abnormalities of the portal venous system as shown by radiologic imaging. focusing on the value of CT and MR imaging in diagnosing these abnormalities. Familiarity with the varied features of congenital abnormalities of the portal venous system will permit more accurate diagnoses and will help prevent false pathologic diagnoses.