The Portal Venous System,

Despite an ever-expanding fund of knowledge, considerable disagreement exists concerning the management of portal hypertension and its complications. The author effectively brings together under one cover a large portion of the currently available major information pertinent to the portal venous system. His description of the development of this system is detailed yet easily understood and is enhanced by excellent illustrations. Further, it is extremely helpful in understanding the development of both common and infrequent congenital abnormalities. Normal anatomy and physiology, as well as alterations of the latter, are fully covered. Diagnostic modalities and the interpretation of results are described without unnecessary detail. Medical and surgical treatment of portal hypertension and its sequelae are well covered. Most major surgical procedures currently in use to obtain portal decompression are discussed and effectively illustrated. While no mention is made of the use of autogenous vein and synthetic grafts, specific indications for the use