Use of prostacyclin and analogs thereof for improving venous flow

A new way of using prostacyclin and its analogs or similar molecules to increase tho flow velocity of the portal veins so that the liver venous perfusion can he improved is disclosed. The said new use of these molecules, usually employed as peripheral arterial and pulmonary vasodilators, is supported by experimental results obtained from two groups of patients, one without liver disease, the other with chronic liver disease; hoth of them were treated with a prostacyclin analog (Iloprost). After Iloprost treatment, both these groups showed a significant increase of portal flow velocity without any side effects.