Endoscopic Variceal Ligation treatment in Mumbai

Esophageal variceal bleeding is the most common in patients with upper gastrointestinal tract hemorrhage. Acute esophageal variceal bleeding is known to be an intractable complication of portal hypertension. Patients with esophageal variceal bleeding show a higher rate of rebleeding, complications, and mortality rate than patients with non-variceal bleeding. For Endoscopic Variceal Ligation treatment in Mumbai meet Dr. Vedant Karvir is one of top Gastro Doctor in Malad, Mumbai.

Although traditional methods such as vasoconstrictors, balloon tamponade, and surgery were used, they were not very effective. Endoscopic injection sclerotherapy was gradually introduced for the treatment of variceal bleeding but this technique was associated with various complications such as esophageal stricture, perforation, and even death.

Endoscopic variceal Ligation was then introduced as an effective treatment of esophageal variceal bleeding. It has fewer complications than the earlier line of treatment. It is considered to be better than endoscopic sclerotherapy as no sclerosant solution is required which reduces the risk of transmural injury to the esophageal wall.

During this procedure, the varix (large vein in esophagus which has high risk of bleeding) is captured within a small band which results in occlusion from thrombosis. It is used for the treatment of esophageal varices that are on the verge of rupturing. The doctor uses a lighted endoscope to place an elastic band around the esophageal vein that is bleeding. This effectively cuts off the blood flow through the vein. The banded tissue develops ulceration that heals in a few days or weeks. 

Is the technique of Variceal Band Ligation safe?

The Variceal band ligation technique is completely safe as it does not increase pressure in the portal system. There is no damage to the esophageal wall as well. It can be done several times to prevent bleeding in enlarged varices. Depending on your condition, the doctor may recommend repeated banding every two to four weeks. You need to visit your doctor two to four times a year for follow-up sessions.

Are there any complications associated with esophageal variceal ligation?

Esophageal variceal ligation may result in a few possible complications in certain cases. These are:

• Narrowing of the esophagus stricture due to repeated procedure.
• Rebleeding
• Esophageal ulcers
• Infection (Rarely).

How should I prepare myself before the procedure?

Have a light dinner a day before the procedure and do not eat or drink after midnight. The doctor may ask you to get certain blood tests done.

What happens on the day of the procedure?

You are made to lie on your left side and given medication through IV to relax you. A scope is placed into your mouth and down the esophagus. The doctor will locate the varices and remove the scope. The banding device is attached to the scope and inserted back into the esophagus. The enlarged vein is sucked into the device and banded. Post procedure, you will have to take soft diet only for 3-4 days and avoid forceful vomiting.

To know about Endoscopic Variceal Ligation treatment in Mumbai book an appointment with Globus Gastroenterology Hospital call on 98331 06104, 98331 87118 or visit our hospital at 201, Second Floor, Kothari Milestone Mall, Near Natraj Market, S.V Road, Malad West - 400064. For hospital directions click here.