NCPF
Non-Cirrhotic Portal Fibrosis
Trusted Hands for Portal Hypertension
Understanding NCPF
Non-Cirrhotic Portal Fibrosis (NCPF) is a chronic liver condition where fibrosis develops in the small branches of the portal vein inside the liver without the presence of cirrhosis. This results in increased portal pressure, leading to complications such as enlarged spleen, varices, and risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Unlike cirrhosis, liver function is usually well preserved, which makes early diagnosis and treatment crucial.
In simple terms, NCPF is a disease where the liver’s blood vessels become stiff or fibrotic, increasing pressure in the portal vein. The liver itself works normally, but patients often face problems like spleen enlargement and variceal bleeding.
Considered a common cause of non-cirrhotic portal hypertension.
Preserved liver function but significant risk of bleeding complications.
When Should You Seek A Specialist
Symptoms Of NCPF
Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Vomiting blood or passing black, tarry stools due to varices.
Enlarged
Spleen
Persistent fullness or swelling on the left side of the abdomen.
Anemia and
fatigue
Due to blood loss or overactive spleen destroying blood cells.
Abdominal
Distension
Fluid buildup (ascites) or visible abdominal
veins.
growth delay in
children
Slow growth and delayed development often linked to NCPF.
Easy bruising or low
platelets
Hypersplenism-related blood
abnormalities.
Common Causes of NCPF
Several factors are linked with NCPF development:
Chronic Infections
Repeated or untreated abdominal and gastrointestinal infections can contribute.
Environmental and Dietary Exposures
Long-term exposure to toxins or poor nutrition may play a role.
Immune- Mediated factors
Autoimmune processes may lead to portal vein fibrosis.
Genetic Predisposition
Family history may increase susceptibility in some patients.
Idiopathic Causes
In many cases, the exact reason remains unknown.
How We Diagnose?
Helps identify enlarged spleen, dilated portal vein, and blood flow changes.
Give detailed images of portal vein branches, collaterals, and liver condition.
Endoscopy is used to detect esophageal or gastric varices that could bleed.
Liver Biopsy confirms diagnosis by showing fibrosis without cirrhosis in liver tissue.
Treatment Options
Treatment aims to control portal hypertension and prevent bleeding.
Splenectomy (Selective Cases)
Considered in patients with severe hypersplenism causing very low blood counts.
Medical management
Beta-blockers and other medications to reduce portal hypertension risk.
Endoscopic Therapy
Banding or sclerotherapy for varices to prevent or stop bleeding.
Shunt Surgeries
Surgical procedures like proximal splenorenal shunt to reduce portal pressure and prevent recurrent bleeding.
Why Trust Us for NCPF Treatment?
Combined expertise of two leading liver surgeons
Dr. Vikas Patel has been part of more than 600 liver transplants, while Dr. Dharmendra Dangi has been part of over 500 liver transplants and performed 500+ complex liver and HPB surgeries. Together, they bring unmatched skill to even the toughest cases.
Experience with high-risk and pediatric cases
From critically ill adults to children needing delicate surgery, our team has successfully managed some of the most challenging and rare liver conditions. Both doctors are trained to manage challenging cases, including liver failure in children, elderly patients, and blood group mismatches.
Proven results using advanced techniques
We use the latest surgical and medical methods including minimally invasive procedures to ensure safer operations, faster recovery, and long-term success. Dr. Dangi is one of the few surgeons in India performing midline donor hepatectomy, a safer way to remove part of the liver from a living donor.
Nationally recognized for excellence
Our surgeons are trusted across India for their leadership in liver surgery. Their work has been featured in medical journals, presented at national conferences, and acknowledged in health magazines such as Silicon India (Top 10 Liver Transplant Surgeons, 2025).
OUR APPROACH
Accurate Diagnosis
using advanced imaging and testing
Personalized Treatment Plans
based on your stage and condition
Complete Pre & Post Transplant Support
when surgery is needed
A Multidisciplinary Team
Both surgeons jointly plan and perform procedures to ensure the best outcomes.
FAQ
Common Questions We Hear From Patients
Your concerns are valid. Here are expert answers to help you make confident decisions about your liver health.
No. Unlike cirrhosis, liver function is usually preserved in NCPF, even though portal hypertension complications are present.
There is no permanent cure, but with timely surgery and medical therapy, complications can be well controlled.
Yes, it is often detected in younger patients and can affect growth and development if untreated.
Not always. It is considered in patients with severe hypersplenism where blood counts are very low.
Shunt surgeries divert blood flow, lowering portal pressure and preventing repeated bleeding from varices.
No, it does not usually progress to cirrhosis, but portal hypertension complications remain significant.
Healthy diet, avoiding alcohol, and regular monitoring can support better outcomes.
Take the First step to a
Advanced Surgery, Better Survival
NCPF is a challenging condition that can lead to life-threatening bleeding if left untreated. With preserved liver function and expert management, patients can achieve good long-term outcomes and maintain quality of life.
Trusted Surgeons for Portal Hypertension
At our liver transplant and HPB surgery care center, you are cared for by Dr. Vikas Patel and Dr. Dharmendra Dangi. With unmatched expertise in both simple and complex cases, they work together to bring you the best chance at recovery.