[ESOPHAGEAL VARICES LIGATION WITH NATIVE TECHNOLOGY]
With the goal to assess the efficacy of a simple set of endoscopic ligation of esophageal varices, we conducted a prospective study in the public Goyeneche Hospital, Arequipa, Per . Ten patients between 17 and 68 years old (mean 48 years)diagnosed with digestive hemorrhage due to grade III-IV esophageal varices caused by hepatic cirrhosis were subject to endoscopic ligation. We succesfully used this simple device without overtube, in a total of 34 sessions, with 3 to 6 bands (mean 4) per session in only one introduction of endoscopy without active vericeal hemorrhage. Endoscopic treatment was repeated at 1-to-2 week intervals until variceal eradication was achieved. Only one complication (p<0.001) in the third session due to esophageal distal estenosis that was resolved with dilatation. This procedure could be useful as practical alternative of easy access and lower cost as a therapeutic option to sclerotheraphy and less complications.
Zevallos
José
J