Dr. Eric Laywell, Associate Professor at the Florida State University College of Medicine, discusses portal venous circulation and how pressure changes in portal veins caused by liver disease can have serious health consequences. Dr. Laywell explores the changes that happen during portacaval anastamosis, highlighting the three dangerous types of swollen portal veins: Esophageal varices, caput mesusae, and anorectal varices. He concludes by discussing the various surgical techniques to ease elevated portal pressure. Special thank you to our content editor Michael Sweeney, MD, Associate Professor of Clinical Sciences at FSU This animation was directed and produced by Jodi Slade, senior medical illustrator at the FSU College of Medicine.