Emerging role of endoscopic variceal band ligation in the treatment of esophageal varices

Bleeding from esophageal varices is the most catastrophic complication of portal hypertension. The associated high morbidity and mortality have necessitated the development of safe and efficacious therapeutic modalities. In recent years, endoscopic band ligation of esophageal varices has proved to be a useful tool in the control of acute variceal bleeding and the prevention of recurrent bleeding. This endoscopic technique is faster than sclerotherapy in obliterating esophageal varices, and is associated with significantly lower local esophageal complications. In the forthcoming years, endoscopic band ligation is expected to gain wider popularity as a definitive therapy for bleeding varices.