Sutures and Wound Repair/ General Surgery (ABSA) Practice Test

Esophageal varices develop primarily due to increased venous pressure in the portal circulation, often resulting from conditions such as cirrhosis of the liver. This increased pressure leads to the distension of veins in the esophagus, creating varices which are susceptible to rupture and can cause significant bleeding. Understanding the role of the venous system is crucial, as it connects the gastrointestinal tract to the liver. When there is an obstruction or increased pressure in this system, it directly leads to the formation of esophageal varices as the body attempts to redirect blood flow. The other types of obstructions, such as arterial or lymphatic, do not directly impact the portal venous system, hence they do not contribute to the formation of esophageal varices.