This educational podcast with Dr. Sobia Laique from the 6th Annual Liver Connect meeting reviews key updates in the management of portal hypertension, focusing on improving outcomes beyond first variceal bleed prevention. The discussion highlights the advantages of carvedilol over propranolol, including its dual mechanism and greater reduction in portal pressure, with evidence supporting its role as first-line therapy in many patients.

The episode also covers the Baveno VII criteria, demonstrating how non-invasive tools like liver stiffness and platelet count can safely reduce the need for screening endoscopies. Additionally, it outlines the “beta blocker window,” helping clinicians determine when to initiate or discontinue therapy based on blood pressure, renal function, and signs of decompensation.

A concise, clinically relevant overview for providers managing patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension.