Management of variceal hemorrhage: current concepts

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The treatment of portal hypertension is complex and the the best strategy depends on the underlying disease (cirrhosis vs. schistosomiasis), patient's clinical condition and time on it is performed (during an acute episode of variceal bleeding or electively, as pre-primary, primary or secondary prophylaxis). With the advent of new pharmacological options and technical development of endoscopy and interventional radiology treatment of portal hypertension has changed in recent decades.AIM: To review the strategies employed in elective and emergency treatment of variceal bleeding in cirrhotic and schistosomotic patients.METHODS: Survey of publications in PubMed, Embase, Lilacs, Sc..