The Significance of Hepatic Portal Venous Gas

Hepatic Portal Venous Gas (HPVG) is a diagnostic clue in patients suffering from acute abdominal pathology. Gas is brought to the liver through the portal venous system that drains the source of intra-abdominal abnormalities. The approach to patients with HPVG should be directed to the underlying disease. It may be diagnosed by a plain radiograph, ultrasound or CT scan. In this case report, CT scan appeared to be superior to plain film not only because of the clear demonstration of HPVG but also the disclosure of its cause.