Varices in the esophagus represent the distension of veins, which, if ruptured, may lead to bleeding complications that may become life-threatening. Tricity Clinic is glad to announce that we are now providing new esophageal treatments, such as sclerotherapy and esophageal banding, to prevent and manage the complications connected to esophageal varices.
What is Esophageal Band Ligation?
Esophageal band ligation is a minimally invasive method used to treat esophageal varices. The procedure involves placing small rubber bands around the bases of the enlarged veins, which tighten their blood supply. Consequently, the varices diminish in size and drop off, minimising the chance of bleeding.
What is Sclerotherapy?
Another method for treating esophageal varices is sclerotherapy, which involves the direct injection of a sclerosing agent into the varices. This causes them to collapse and form scar tissue. Over time, this scar tissue blocks the blood flow to the varices and thereby helps reduce the risk of bleeding in the future.
Conditions Treated
Sclerotherapy and band ligation of esophageal varices are primarily indicated to treat:
- Esophageal Varices: These are dilated veins in the esophagus that occur due to liver disease or portal hypertension.
- Gastrointestinal Bleeding: This is either acute or chronic bleeding caused by ruptured varices in the gastrointestinal tract.
Procedure Details
Esophageal Band Ligation
Consultation & Diagnosis:
An in-depth assessment with our specialists.
Endoscopy to determine variceal size and location.
Preparation:
May require fasting before the procedure.
Tailored instructions to address specific medical issues.
Procedure:
For patient convenience, sedation or anaesthesia is administered.
An endoscope fitted with a banding device is guided to the esophagus via the mouth.
To eliminate blood flow, rubber bands are applied to the varices’ base.
Post-Procedure Care:
Monitoring in a recovery area until the effects of sedation wear off.
Instructions on diet, activity, and medications to aid recovery and prevent recurrence.
Follow-up appointments to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and monitor for any potential complications.
Sclerotherapy
Initial Meeting and Assessing the Issue:
Complete review by our doctors.
Diagnostic endoscopy for visualising the varices and deciding on the best course of action.
Getting Ready:
Fasting might be required before the procedure.
Instructions are tailored to the patient’s specific medical situation.
Procedure:
Sedation or anaesthesia is administered so the patient is at ease.
Through the mouth, an endoscope equipped with a sclerotherapy needle is inserted into the oesophagus.
The varices are treated with a direct injection of a sclerosant, which makes the varices collapse and transform into scar tissue.
Post-Procedure Care:
Monitoring in a recovery area until the effects of sedation wear off.
Instructions on diet, activity, and medications to aid recovery and prevent recurrence.
Follow-up appointments to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and monitor for any potential complications.
Benefits of Esophageal Band Ligation and Sclerotherapy at Tricity Clinic
Minimally Invasive: Both procedures avoid the need for open surgery, resulting in shorter recovery times and less postoperative pain.
Effective Management: These treatments effectively reduce the risk of bleeding from esophageal varices.
Experienced Team: Our highly skilled gastroenterologists have extensive experience in performing these procedures.
Comprehensive Care: From diagnosis to treatment and follow-up, we provide a seamless and patient-centred approach to care.
