Portal hypertension is causally related to major complications of chronic liver disease like upper GI tract bleeding, ascites formation, portosystemic encephalopathy and bacterial infections. In recent years, new approaches have increased our knowledge of the underlying pathobiological events of these complications. Accordingly, new promising treatment modalities have been developed and introduced into clinical trials. This book, the proceedings of the 79th Falk Symposium in Freiburg-im-Breisgau, Germany, 17--19 June 1994, presents the latest developments in the field, including a section which describes the role of portal hypertension in the pathogenesis of complications of chronic liver disease. Also covered is the therapeutic management of portal hypertension and its consequences as well as the latest endoscopic, interventional and surgical treatment options. This book is essential reading for those whose interests range from anatomy and pathobiology through to practical recommendations for treatment of portal hypertension.