Recanalization of which structure forms a portosystemic collateral seen with cirrhosis?

Recanalization of which structure forms a portosystemic collateral seen with cirrhosis?

• A. Patent umbilical vein
• B. Recanalized portal vein
• C. Esophageal varix
• D. Left renal vein

Answer: (A)

Recanalization of the umbilical vein forms a portosystemic collateral seen with cirrhosis. In portal hypertension from cirrhosis, the body creates alternative pathways to bypass the high pressure in the portal system. The umbilical vein, which normally closes after birth and becomes the ligamentum teres, can reopen within the falciform ligament. This creates paraumbilical collateral vessels that connect the portal venous system to the systemic circulation through abdominal wall veins, producing flow toward the periumbilical region and sometimes caput medusae on exam or imaging. Esophageal varices are another form of portosystemic collateral but arise from dilation of esophageal veins, not from recanalization of the umbilical channel.

Recanalization of the umbilical vein forms a portosystemic collateral seen with cirrhosis. In portal hypertension from cirrhosis, the body creates alternative pathways to bypass the high pressure in the portal system. The umbilical vein, which normally closes after birth and becomes the ligamentum teres, can reopen within the falciform ligament. This creates paraumbilical collateral vessels that connect the portal venous system to the systemic circulation through abdominal wall veins, producing flow toward the periumbilical region and sometimes caput medusae on exam or imaging. Esophageal varices are another form of portosystemic collateral but arise from dilation of esophageal veins, not from recanalization of the umbilical channel.