Immediate Management of Variceal Hemorrhage: Pharmacologic Measures and Balloon Tamponade

Abstract

Pharmacologic agents and balloon tamponade are used as immediate treatment for variceal bleeding. Drugs with proven therapeutic effects include somatostatin, glypressin, and the combination of vasopressin and nitroglycerin. Balloon tamponade with the Sengstaken or Linton tubes is highly effective for the temporary control of bleeding, but it is associated with a high risk of complication and should only be used in experienced centers under close monitoring.