Vascular Security: Endoscopic Varix Therapy What is Endoscopic Varix Therapy? Varices are enlarged, swollen veins that usually develop in the esophagus or stomach, often as a result of "portal hypertension" (increased pressure in the veins leading to the liver). Because these veins have thin walls and are under high pressure, they are at risk of rupturing and causing significant internal bleeding. Endoscopic therapy allows our specialists to treat these veins internally to prevent or stop bleeding. Depending on the location and severity of the varices, we utilize three primary techniques: Endoscopic Band Ligation (EVL): Often the first choice for esophageal varices, this involves placing tiny elastic bands around the enlarged veins to "tie them off," causing them to eventually wither and disappear. Sclerotherapy: A specialized "sclerosing" medication is injected directly into the varix or the surrounding vein wall, causing the vein to shrink and scar over. Embolization (Cyanoacrylate Injection): For varices located in the stomach (gastric varices), a medical-grade adhesive or "glue" is injected to instantly seal the vein and prevent rupture. Why is this Procedure Personally Vital for You? Varix therapy is a critical component of long-term liver and vascular management. This specialized care is personally vital for you if: You Have Been Diagnosed with Liver Cirrhosis: Patients with advanced liver disease are at the highest risk for developing varices; proactive "banding" can prevent a life-threatening bleeding episode before it occurs. You Have Experienced Previous GI Bleeding: If you have previously coughed up blood or had black stools, regular varix therapy is essential to ensure that old veins are treated and new ones are monitored. You Seek to Reduce Portal Hypertension Risks: By managing the varices directly, we reduce the immediate danger of hemorrhage while your medical team works to manage the underlying liver condition. Emergency Intervention is Required: If a varix has already ruptured, these endoscopic techniques are the primary tools used to stop the bleeding and stabilize your system immediately. The Path to Vascular Stability and Recovery The goal of varix therapy is to eliminate high-risk veins and provide a stable internal environment for your digestive tract. This pathway is designed to: Provide Immediate Structural Reinforcement: Techniques like ligation and embolization provide instant physical protection against vein rupture. Prioritize Comprehensive Medical Safety: Because varices are often linked to liver function, we require a thorough medical history, diagnostic X-rays (to check for fluid in the abdomen or chest), and detailed blood tests (specifically liver function tests, platelet counts, and coagulation profiles). This ensures we can perform the therapy safely while your blood’s ability to clot is optimized. A Focused Recovery and Stabilization Window: While the procedure is performed under sedation and usually takes less than 30 minutes, the treated veins need time to scar and heal. We focus on a 2–3 week recovery and stabilization period. During this time, our multidisciplinary team will monitor your swallowing, provide a specific "soft food" diet plan, and adjust your blood pressure medications to ensure your vascular system is perfectly stabilized. All details are subject to doctor evaluation for the final treatment plan.