Abstract
Repair of portal vein injury in a hostile abdomen can be very challenging, complicated by massive hemorrhage or stenosis. It can seldom be successfully carried out, even by experienced hepatobiliary surgeons. The ideal venous clamping technique is often not feasible and increases the risk of lethal portal vein laceration. The common mistake being the forceful use of clamps around the vein in the attempt to obtain vascular control, resulting in additional injuries.