Treatment options
Medical options
The initial treatment of extra-hepatic portal vein thrombosis depends on the severity of your child's initial symptoms. Blood transfusions are often required if your child has vomited large amounts of blood or lost blood in their bowel movements. Medications may also be given intravenously or by mouth to stop bleeding from varices or decrease the chances of future bleeding from the varices. A procedure to decrease the number and size of the varices in the esophagus may also be recommended (called “banding”). These steps are not a cure for EHPVT and portal hypertension but can be an important first step in controlling the problem.
Surgical options
Your child may be referred for surgery after the initial diagnosis of portal hypertension or later after his symptoms are controlled. Different surgical options are available, and the best one will depend on your child's specific needs, the condition of the liver and the condition of the veins inside the abdomen. Learn more details here about the various surgical options.