English
Paediatric Gastroenterology treatment in Sarjapur Road

Endoscopic variceal band ligation

Paediatric Gastroenterology treatment in Sarjapur Road

Endoscopic variceal band ligation (EVBL) is a minimally invasive technique used to treat varices or enlarged veins in the oesophagus. EVBL involves placing a small rubber band around the varix, which cuts off its blood supply and causes it to shrink. This procedure is typically performed using an endoscope, a long, thin tube equipped with a camera and light inserted through the mouth and down the throat. EVBL is a safe and effective treatment for varices and is associated with minimal risk of complications. 

The most common complication is bleeding, which typically occurs within 24 hours of the procedure. However, serious bleeding is rare, and the overall complication rate is less than 1%. EVBL is the most effective treatment for varices and is the preferred treatment over pharmacologic therapy (such as beta blockers) or surgery. EVBL is associated with a high success rate (defined as variceal obliteration or a reduction in the variceal size of at least 50%) and can be performed on an outpatient basis. 

Pre-Procedure

Before an endoscopic variceal band ligation procedure during paediatric gastroenterology treatment in Sarjapur Road, the patient will be asked to,

  • Avoid eating or drinking for at least six hours before the procedure  

  • Take a laxative or enema the night before or the morning of the procedure  

  • Not take any blood thinners for at least five days before the procedure  

A nurse or doctor will review the patient's medical history and medications and may order blood tests or other tests to ensure the patient is healthy enough for the procedure. The patient will be asked to sign a consent form before the procedure.  

Procedure

The procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, and an endoscope is inserted through the mouth and down the oesophagus to the stomach. The endoscope is then passed through the stomach and into the first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum. Once the endoscope is in place, a small, specialised device called a variceal ligation device is passed through the endoscope and positioned over the bleeding varices.

The device consists of a small balloon that is inflated and a ratchet device that tightens the ligation device around the varices. The balloon is then deflated, and the ligation device is removed. The process is repeated until all the varices have been treated. The entire procedure takes 30 minutes to 1 hour. 

Post-Procedure

After the endoscopic variceal band ligation procedure, the patient will be taken to a recovery area, where they will be monitored for complications. The patient may have some discomfort in their throat and may need to take pain medication. They will also need to follow up with their doctor to make sure the varices are healing properly. 

Book an appointment at Manipal Hospitals now.

Experience world-class healthcare at Manipal Hospitals. Our expert team of doctors and state-of-the-art facilities ensure personalized and advanced treatments. Take the first step towards wellness. Book an appointment today.