MD-80 Series (DC-9-80) Undifferentiated or Other Model
Flight Crew Flight Engineer; Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP); Flight Crew Instrument
Flight Crew Last 90 Days 150; Flight Crew Total 18000; Flight Crew Type 5000
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; General Declared Emergency
Aircraft
We were deiced at the gate and had a short taxi to Runway 28L at PDX airport.  Shortly after gear retraction the left engine began to have compressor stalls.  The throttle was retarded and the stalls stopped.  The First Officer and I discussed our options and possibilities.  I informed ATC that we were returning to the field and declared an emergency.  I requested ARFF to be standing by.  I briefed the Flight Attendants about our situation and made a PA to the passengers informing them we were returning to PDX due to an engine problem.  The First Officer and I briefed the approach and decided to use flaps 28 in case of an engine failure.  After completing checklists; we landed overweight.  The landing was smooth and I shut down the left engine after stopping on the runway.  I elected to remain on the runway until we were inspected by ARFF.  After we were advised of no fire or visible damage; we taxied to the gate and deplaned without further incident.
An MD80 experienced compressor stalls from the left engine after gear retraction.  The flight crew elected to declare an emergency and return to their departure airport.