Portosystemic collateral pathways are a significant concern in interventional radiology, frequently manifesting in patients with cirrhosis or portal vein thrombosis. These pathways can lead to severe clinical complications, including gastrointestinal bleeding, hepatic encephalopathy, and liver failure. A thorough understanding of the anatomy, hemodynamic alterations, and clinical implications of these shunts is crucial for interventional radiologists to provide effective treatment while minimizing risks. This article reviews the clinical presentations associated with portosystemic shunts, explores the anatomical variants and altered flow dynamics, and discusses the latest endovascular treatment strategies to optimize patient outcomes.

Esophageal variceal bleeding is a severe complication often associated with portal hypertension, commonly due to liver cirrhosis. Prevention and treatment of this condition are critical for patient outcomes. Preventive strategies focus on reducing portal hypertension to prevent varices from developing or enlarging. Primary prophylaxis involves the use of non-selective beta-blockers, such as propranolol or nadolol, which lower portal pressure by decreasing cardiac output and thereby reducing blood flow to the varices. Endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) may also be employed as primary prophylaxis to prevent initial bleeding episodes. Once bleeding occurs, immediate treatment is essential. Initial management includes hemodynamic stabilization followed by pharmacological therapy with vasoactive drugs such as octreotide or terlipressin to control bleeding. Endoscopic intervention is the cornerstone of treatment, with techniques such as EVL or sclerotherapy applied to directly manage the bleeding varices. In cases where bleeding is refractory to endoscopic treatment, transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt may be considered to effectively reduce portal pressure. Long-term management after an acute bleeding episode involves secondary prophylaxis using beta-blockers and repeated EVL sessions to prevent rebleeding, complemented by monitoring and managing liver function to address the underlying disease. In light of new scientific evidence, including the findings of the study by Peng et al, this editorial aims to review available strategies for the prevention and treatment of esophageal varices.