ObjectiveTo introduce the technique of threedimensional portal venography of multidetector row spiral CT and its clinical application in the evaluation of the portosystemic collateral shunts of liver cirrhosis. MethodsAll relevant literatures were retrospectively reviewed on the application of twodimensional and threedimensional reconstruction techniques such as MIP, SSD, VRT of multidetector row spiral CT to demonstrate the collateral vessels of liver cirrhosis.ResultsThe distribution, pathway and anatomy of portosystemic collateral vessels were well shown by multidetector row spiral CT portal venography. Conclusion Multidetector row spiral CT portal venography provides excellent depiction of the anatomic characteristics of the collateral shunts and enables the continuous tracing of vascular structures, thus it is very helpful in the imaging evaluation of the collateral vessels of liver cirrhosis.