Long-term results of endoscopically variceal ligation(EVL)in the treatment of esophageal variceal bleeding / 中国普通外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective This study aimed at assessing the long-term efficacy of EVL for esophageal variceal bleeding. Methods Long-term EVL was assessed in 263 patients with variceal bleeding,among them 71 were of Child- Pugh Class A,82 of Class B and 110 of Class C.EVL was repeated at two week intervals until varices were eradicated.Results Esophageal varices were eradicated in 91% of the 238 patients who survived for more than three months after 1 to 10 (average 4) successive ligations.Recurrent variceal bleeding occurred in 15% of the 263 patients and was markedly reduced after eradication of the varices.The overall cumulative survival rates at 1,3,and 5 years were 76%,62%,and 57%,respectively.The prognosis was influenced by Child- Pugh's risk grade.56 of the 263 patients died during the study period,and the major cause of death was liver failure.Conclusion EVL is effective for long-term control of esophageal variceal bleeding.Repeated EVL re- duces rebleeding rate and improves survival in patients who have bled from esophageal varices.