− | '''Portsystemic shunts (PSS)''' are anomalous vessels vascular connections between the portal and systemic venous systems. This allows for some portal blood draining from the stomach, intestines, pancreas and spleen to bypass the liver and drains directly into the systemic circulation. | + | '''Portsystemic shunts (PSS)''' are anomalous vessels vascular connections between the portal and systemic venous systems. This allows for some portal blood draining from the stomach, intestines, pancreas and spleen to bypass the liver and drains directly into the systemic circulation. PSS may be congenital or acquired secondary to portal hypertension. |