Inadequacy of using size variations of esophageal varices to evaluate the permeability of distal splenorenal anastomoses

After portal hypertension surgical treatment, the esophageal varices size reduction as endoscopically observed, has been pointed out as an indirect permeability sign and good function of portal systemic shunts. Three cases of distal splenorenal anastomosis thrombosis, studied angiographically, were followed by decrease of esophageal varices volume, are discussed.