Endoscopic variceal ligation in pediatric patients with portal hypertension secondary to liver cirrhosis

Abstract

Background: Endoscopic variceal ligation is the initial treatment of choice in the management of esophageal varices. Few reports include its use in the pediatric population. We review our experience with this therapeutic modality in pediatric patients with end stage liver disease and esophageal varices.

Methods: We reviewed the medical records of pediatric patients with end stage liver disease who underwent endoscopic variceal ligation from January 1994 until December 1996.

Results: Thirty-two endoscopic variceal ligation procedures were performed in six pediatric patients during the period of study. In all patients, the esophageal varices classification was improved at the end of treatment. Only one patient had an episode of bleeding from esophageal varices during the period of study; only one patients had a complication associated with endoscopic variceal ligation.

Conclusions: Endoscopic variceal ligation is feasible, safe, and effective for the management of esophageal varices in pediatric patients with end stage liver disease.