Laparoscopy-Associated Portal Vein Thrombosis: Description of an Evolving Clinical Syndrome

Several cases of portal vein thrombosis following laparoscopic procedures have been reported over the past few years. To date, no formal description of this phenomenon has been provided. In this paper, we summarize and analyze the features of the 4 reported cases to date as well as a fifth case encountered at our institution. The probable causes of this complication include changes in coagulation status, splanchnic hemodynamics, and portal venous blood flow, all of which may be related to carbon dioxide absorption and increased intra-abdominal pressure. The recognition of this phenomenon and its management are discussed. A review of the relevant literature is provided.