ObjectiveTo analyze the postoperative complications and mortality in patients with portal hypertension and its prevention.MethodsFrom December 1988 to December 1998, we have surgically treated portal hypertension in 302 cases.ResultsForty-two(13.9%) patients had complications. Some complications were related to the operative method and the expertise, others were related to the disease and patients′ condition. The main relative factors of complications were: age over 50,liver function grade C, emergency operation, and moderate or severe esophageal varices. 64 patients died at follow-up of surgical complications, rebleeding, encephalopathy and systemic failure. ConclusionThe standard operative maneuver, perioperative intensive therapy and avoidance of emergency operation were important in reducing the complications. More attention should be paid to patients with old age, poor liver function and repeated bleeding. Postoperative patients should be regularly followed-up. Every measures should be undertaken to improve the patients′ general condition in order to lower bleeding, encephalopathy and mortality.