Portal Vein Embolization: Indications, Outcomes, and Complications

Abstract Portal vein embolization (PVE) is performed with the goal of causing hypertrophy of the future liver remnant (FLR) in patients prior to partial liver resections for either hepatocellular carcinoma or metastatic liver tumors. Since its earliest description in 1984, PVE has evolved technically and has proven to be a safe and effective means of causing predictable FLR hypertrophy. PVE allows patients who would have otherwise not been candidates to proceed with safe hepatic resection, particularly extended hepatic resections. Despite advances in equipment and techniques, complications do occur with PVE. This article discusses the indications, outcomes, and complications of PVE while providing historical perspective and technical insights.