Radiological diagnosis of bleeding esophageal varices.

With bleeding esophageal varices radiological investigation of the underlying cause, mostly portal hypertension, is necessary. The cross-sectional imaging methods are suitable for non-invasive differentiation of the various types of underlying obstruction. Angiography may be necessary to verify the pathological findings (i.e. the extent of thrombosis), for complete demonstration of the topographical anatomy and assessment of hemodynamic parameters, and is thus an integral part of the diagnostic work-up before shunt surgery.