Maksaportin

Maksaportin, or the hepatic portal vein, is a central vessel in the portal venous system that carries nutrient-rich blood from the gastrointestinal tract and spleen to the liver for processing.

Anatomy and development

The hepatic portal vein is formed behind the pancreas by the union of the superior mesenteric vein and the splenic vein, sometimes with contributions from the inferior mesenteric vein. It ascends to the liver and enters at the porta hepatis, where it typically divides into right and left branches that perfuse the hepatic sinusoids. Within the hepatoduodenal ligament, it lies alongside the hepatic artery and common bile duct as part of the portal triad.

Function and physiology

Portal blood is rich in nutrients and metabolites but relatively low in oxygen compared with arterial blood. The liver processes nutrients, toxins, and hormones delivered by the portal vein while receiving oxygen from the hepatic artery. This arrangement supports dual blood supply and hepatic metabolism.

Clinical significance

Obstruction or elevated pressure in the portal venous system leads to portal hypertension, a condition associated with esophageal varices, ascites, and splenomegaly. Portal vein thrombosis is another important complication. Imaging modalities such as Doppler ultrasound or CT scan assess portal vein diameter and flow direction, with a normal diameter typically up to about 13 mm and flow that is hepatopetal (toward the liver).

See also

Portal venous system, portal triad, liver anatomy.