An endoscopic treatment placing rubber bands on dilated veins (varices) in the esophagus to prevent or stop bleeding.
Why you need it
• Diagnosed esophageal varices from portal hypertension
• History of variceal hemorrhage
• High-risk varices as prophylaxis
Preparation
• Fast 6 hours before the procedure
• Continue non-selective β-blockers if prescribed
• Arrange adult companion for transport
During the procedure
• IV sedation in endoscopy suite
• Bands deployed around each varix via endoscope
• Duration: 10–20 minutes
Afterwards
• Monitor in recovery for 30–60 minutes
• Start with clear liquids, advance to soft diet over 24 hours
• Avoid heavy lifting for 24 hours
Risks & complications
• Post-ligation ulcers causing chest pain (5–10%)
• Dysphagia or sore throat (10–15%)
• Rare bleeding from band sites (<1%)
• Perforation (<0.5%)
Follow-up
• Repeat sessions every 2–4 weeks until varices eradicated
• Surveillance endoscopy per hepatology protocol
