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Esophageal varices seven days after banding, showing ulceration at the site of banding. The upper two thirds of the esophagus are drained via the esophageal veins, which carry deoxygenated blood from the esophagus to the azygos vein, which in turn drains directly into the superior vena cava. These veins have no part in the development of ...
Banding is a medical procedure which uses elastic bands for constriction. Banding may be used to tie off blood vessels in order to stop bleeding, as in the treatment of bleeding esophageal varices. [1] The band restricts blood flow to the ligated tissue, so that it eventually dies and sloughs away from the supporting tissue.
Endoscopic image of esophageal varices being ligated with rubber bands. The varix being ligated has a longitudinal red mark on it, termed the wale mark. A wale mark, red wale sign or wale sign is an endoscopic sign suggestive of recent hemorrhage, or propensity to bleed, seen in individuals with esophageal varices at the time of endoscopy.
It is a temporary measure: ulceration and rupture of the esophagus and stomach are recognized complications. [4] [5] A related device with a larger gastric balloon capacity (about 500 ml), the Linton–Nachlas tube, is used for bleeding gastric varices. It does not have an esophageal balloon.
This is typically in addition to endoscopic banding or sclerotherapy for the varices. [21] If this is sufficient then beta blockers and nitrates may be used for the prevention of re-bleeding. [21] If bleeding continues then balloon tamponade with a Sengstaken-Blakemore tube or Minnesota tube may be used in an attempt to mechanically compress ...
Esophageal inflammation and erosive disease are the next most common causes. [3] In those with liver cirrhosis, 50–60% of bleeding is due to esophageal varices. [3] Approximately half of those with peptic ulcers have an H. pylori infection. [3] Other causes include Mallory-Weiss tears, cancer, and angiodysplasia. [2]
The esophageal branch of the left gastric vein drains into the azygos vein. In cases of portal hypertension, this communication allows for blood to bypass the portal vein and reach systemic circulation. As a result of this anastomosis, development of esophageal and paraesophageal varices is possible. [3]
Gastroscopy (endoscopic examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum) is performed in cases of established cirrhosis. If esophageal varices are found, prophylactic local therapy may be applied such as sclerotherapy or banding, and beta blockers may be used. [134] [135] [136]