Fundal Varices Sclerotherapy
A patient information leaflet
What is Fundal Varices Sclerotherapy?
An endoscopic procedure using a sclerosant solution injected directly into gastric (fundal) varices to obliterate dilated veins and prevent or stop bleeding.
Why Do I Need It?
You may need fundal variceal sclerotherapy if you have:
- Gastric varices detected on endoscopy
- Active or recent bleeding from fundal varices
- High‐risk varices in portal hypertension
How Should I Prepare?
- Fast for at least 6 hours.
- Continue usual medications; inform us of anticoagulant use.
- Sign an informed‐consent form.
What Happens During the Procedure?
- You lie sedated in the endoscopy suite.
- An endoscope guides a fine needle into the varices.
- Sclerosant (e.g., cyanoacrylate) is injected to thrombose the vein.
- Procedure time: 15–30 minutes.
What Can I Expect Afterwards?
- Recovery: 1–2 hours observation for sedation effects.
- Diet: Clear liquids first, advancing as tolerated.
- Activity: No heavy lifting for 24 hours.
Risks & Possible Complications
- Transient fever or pain (10–20%)
- Embolic events (rare)
- Rebleeding requiring repeat treatment (10–15%)
- Ulceration at injection site (<5%)
Seek urgent care for severe abdominal pain, fever, difficulty breathing, or recurrent bleeding.
Follow‐Up
- Endoscopy in 4–6 weeks to assess variceal obliteration.
- Continued portal‐pressure–lowering medication as prescribed.
