PORTOSYSTEMIC SHUNTS Meaning and
Definition
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Portosystemic shunts, also known as hepatic shunts or portacaval shunts, are abnormally formed blood vessels that connect the portal vein and the systemic venous system. The portal vein carries blood from the abdominal organs, such as the intestines and the spleen, to the liver for processing and detoxification. However, in the case of portosystemic shunts, blood bypasses the liver and directly enters the systemic circulation, leading to various complications.
These shunts can either be acquired or congenital. Acquired shunts are typically a result of liver disease, such as cirrhosis or liver tumors, and they can develop over time. On the other hand, congenital shunts are present from birth and are the result of abnormal embryonic development.
Portosystemic shunts can cause a range of health issues, including poor liver function, hepatic encephalopathy (a condition characterized by neurological symptoms due to liver dysfunction), and impaired nutrient absorption. This is because the blood bypassing the liver avoids detoxification, leading to the accumulation of toxins in the bloodstream. Additionally, essential nutrients that are normally processed by the liver might not be adequately metabolized, leading to nutritional deficiencies.
Treatment options for portosystemic shunts depend on the severity and location of the shunt. In some cases, medication can be used to manage symptoms and complications. However, in severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to redirect the blood flow and restore proper liver function.
Common Misspellings for PORTOSYSTEMIC SHUNTS
- oortosystemic shunts
- lortosystemic shunts
- -ortosystemic shunts
- 0ortosystemic shunts
- pirtosystemic shunts
- pkrtosystemic shunts
- plrtosystemic shunts
- pprtosystemic shunts
- p0rtosystemic shunts
- p9rtosystemic shunts
- poetosystemic shunts
- podtosystemic shunts
- poftosystemic shunts
- pottosystemic shunts
- po5tosystemic shunts
- po4tosystemic shunts
- porrosystemic shunts
- porfosystemic shunts
- porgosystemic shunts
- poryosystemic shunts
Etymology of PORTOSYSTEMIC SHUNTS
The word "portosystemic shunts" is derived from the combination of several terms:
1. Portosystemic: The term "portosystemic" refers to the relationship between the portal vein and the systemic circulation. The portal vein is a large vein that carries blood from the gastrointestinal system, spleen, and pancreas to the liver. Consequently, "portosystemic" signifies the connection or interaction between the portal vein system and the systemic circulation.
2. Shunts: In medicine, a shunt refers to a passageway that allows the diversion of fluid from its normal course. It can be a surgical procedure to create an artificial channel, or it can be a naturally occurring abnormal connection between blood vessels or other anatomical structures.
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