Duplex sonography in the diagnosis of portal vein thrombosis.

Portal vein thrombosis was readily diagnosed by pulsed duplex Doppler sonography in five patients. The cases represent different stages in the development of the thrombotic event, from partial or complete occlusion by an echogenic intraluminal thrombus to cavernous transformation of the portal vein. The unique ability of duplex scanning to demonstrate abnormal vascular structures and flow pattern is emphasised. This method should be the technique of choice in the diagnosis of portal vein thrombosis.