How is esophageal banding done?

Using an endoscope, the doctor uses suction to pull the varices into a chamber at the end of the scope and wraps them with an elastic band, which essentially “strangles” the veins so they can’t bleed. Endoscopic band ligation carries a small risk of complications, such as bleeding and scarring of the esophagus.

Do esophageal bands dissolve?

After the application of rubber bands over esophageal varices, the ligated tissues with rubber bands may fall off within a few days (range: 1-10 d).

Can I live a long life with cirrhosis?

The life expectancy for someone with cirrhosis and no major complications is more than 12 years, but it can be less for individuals in advanced stages or who have complications.

What to expect after esophageal banding?

Do not eat or drink anything for 2 hours after this procedure. Then have small sips of cool water or other clear liquids. You may have some throat discomfort after this procedure. This is normal and should get better within 2 days. Cough drops, honey, or a warm salt water gargle may help relieve the discomfort.

What causes esophageal varices?

Causes of esophageal varices include: Severe liver scarring (cirrhosis). A number of liver diseases — including hepatitis infection, alcoholic liver disease, fatty liver disease and a bile duct disorder called primary biliary cirrhosis — can result in cirrhosis . Blood clot (thrombosis).

What is esophageal varices banding?

Esophageal banding is a procedure used to treat varices in your esophagus. It may also be called ligation. Varices are swollen veins in your esophagus. They are caused by increased pressure in the blood vessels of your liver.

What are esophageal varices?

What is esophageal varices. Esophageal varices are abnormal, enlarged veins in the tube that connects the throat and stomach (esophagus). Esophageal varices develop when blood pressure in portal veins becomes greater then 10mmHg so blood gets pushed back through alternative routes in order to reach the heart rather than going through the liver.

How is esophageal banding done? Using an endoscope, the doctor uses suction to pull the varices into a chamber at the end of the scope and wraps them with an elastic band, which essentially “strangles” the veins so they can’t bleed. Endoscopic band ligation carries a small risk of complications, such as bleeding and scarring…