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Semin intervent Radiol 2012; 29(02): 081-089
DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1312568
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Portal Vein Embolization: Rationale, Technique, and Current Application

Benjamin J. May
1   Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, New York – Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, New York
,
David C. Madoff
1   Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, New York – Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, New York, New York
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
14 June 2012 (online)

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Abstract

Portal vein embolization (PVE) is a technique used before hepatic resection to increase the size of liver segments that will remain after surgery. This therapy redirects portal blood to segments of the future liver remnant (FLR), resulting in hypertrophy. PVE is indicated when the FLR is either too small to support essential function or marginal in size and associated with a complicated postoperative course. When appropriately applied, PVE has been shown to reduce postoperative morbidity and increase the number of patients eligible for curative intent resection. PVE is also being combined with other therapies in novel ways to improve surgical outcomes. This article reviews the rationale, technical considerations, and current use of preoperative PVE.

Keywords

Portal vein - embolization - liver resection - liver malignancy
 

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