Varices arise from hemodynamic disturbance between the systemic and portal venous system. The majority of venous drainage of the gastrointestinal system occurs via the portal venous system. Whenever there is an interruption of drainage through the portal system (for example due to cirrhosis), the vessels contributing to the porto-caval shunts become more prominent due to increased pressure gradient. The interruption in blood flow leads to the creation collateral vessels that involve veins of the esophagus, stomach, pelvis (hemorrhoids), retroperitoneum, liver, abdominal wall, and other areas.
Gastrointestinal varices pathophysiology
Upper gastrointestinal bleeding pathophysiology
Portal vein thrombosis pathophysiology
Lower gastrointestinal bleeding pathophysiology
Gastrointestinal varices causes
Gastrointestinal varices other diagnostic studies
Gastrointestinal varices risk factors
Gastrointestinal varices epidemiology and demographics