Band Ligation Research Articles

Endoscopic polidocanol foam sclerobanding for treatment of internal hemorrhoids: A novel outpatient procedure

In the study, we comment on the article by Qu et al . Internal hemorrhoids are the most common anorectal disorders worldwide with bleeding, prolapse, and difficulty in defecation. Endoscopic rubber band ligation (ERBL) is a safe, convenient, quick, and economical outpatient procedure. The main goal of ERBL is to alleviate prolapse, but the high incidence of recurrence and post-procedural pain are of clinical concern. Polidocanol foam as a local hemostatic and anesthetic agent could reduce the rates of post-procedural pain and bleeding. Endoscopic polidocanol foam sclerobanding (EFSB) is a novel approach that could lift the mucosa for easy ligation and promote increased scarring in the submucosal tissue which translates into long-term relief from prolapse recurrence and reduced 24-h post-procedural pain. The study by Qu et al is a novel multi-center prospective randomized study to compare ERBL and EFSB in patients with grades II and III internal hemorrhoids with one-year follow-up. Results showed that EFSB is a novel therapy for internal hemorrhoids, but future studies with a larger sample, multiple treatment sessions, and long-term follow-up are required to confirm these findings.

Efficacy and safety of endoscopic hemostasis with a self-assembling peptide solution in patients with colonic diverticular bleeding: A multicenter pilot study

Background and aimsPuraStat (3-D Matrix, Tokyo, Japan) is an absorbent localized hemostatic agent that utilizes self-assembling peptide technology. In this multicenter pilot study, we evaluated the efficacy and safety of endoscopic hemostasis using PuraStat in patients with colonic diverticular bleeding (CDB). MethodsThis study involved patients who had CDB with stigmata of recent hemorrhage (SRH) and underwent endoscopic hemostasis with PuraStat monotherapy or combination therapy comprising PuraStat with endoscopic band ligation (EBL) or clipping (Group A). Treatment outcomes and adverse events were assessed and compared with those of a previous cohort who underwent endoscopic hemostasis without PuraStat for CDB with SRH (Group B). Factors associated with the reduction of rebleeding were subsequently investigated. ResultsPuraStat was used in 25 patients with CDB. Their mean age was 70.8 years, 13 (52.0%) were male, and the most frequent bleeding sites were in the ascending colon [15 (60.0%) patients]. The success rate of endoscopic hemostasis was 100% (25/25); 2 patients were treated with PuraStat monotherapy and 23 with combination therapy (EBL, 13 patients; clipping, 10 patients). The success rates were comparable between Groups A and B (100% vs. 96.4%, P=1.000). The rate of rebleeding within 30 days was significantly lower in Group A than B (4.0% vs. 20.9%, P=0.047). Multivariate analyses revealed that the addition of Purastat was associated with the reduced risk of rebleeding (odds ratio 0.11, 95% confidence interval 0.01–0.95; P=0.045). ConclusionsPuraStat can be easily added to the conventional hemostatic methods for CDB, that could lower the risk of rebleeding.

Direct observation of an exposed blood vessel in a colonic diverticulum using ultrathin endoscopy.

In recent years, cases of diverticular bleeding have become more common. Although identifying the bleeding diverticulum is difficult, it is even more difficult to identify the exposed blood vessels in the bleeding diverticulum. We experienced a case in which we succeeded in directly observing the exposed blood vessels of a sigmoid colon diverticulum using the ultrathin endoscope. The patient was a 71-year-old man who experienced rebleeding after hemostasis in the sigmoid colon by endoscopic band ligation. In the case of diverticular bleeding in the sigmoid colon, we showed that identifying exposed blood vessels by observing the diverticulum under direct vision using the ultrathin endoscope may be useful for hemostasis.

A case study of consecutive pregnancies in a woman with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension

Pregnancy in women with liver cirrhosis is a high-risk one that requires multidisciplinary care. Variceal bleeding occurs in up to half of women having associated portal hypertension and confers the greatest risk. Despite advances made in the management of such cases, maternal morbidity remains high. Pregnancy is rare in women with liver cirrhosis due to reduced natural fertility rates. We report a case of two consecutive pregnancies in a woman with liver cirrhosis. A 29-year-old primipara with hepatitis B-related liver cirrhosis with portal hypertension who had been on tenofovir for the past seven years. The first pregnancy was spontaneously conceived but the second was by assisted conception. Both pregnancies were complicated by recurrent episodes of variceal bleeding that necessitated multiple endoscopic variceal band ligation (EVBL) during pregnancy. Medical advancement has enabled women with cirrhosis to have more pregnancies with reduced maternal and perinatal morbidities. Multidisciplinary management is vital to achieving favourable pregnancy outcomes.

Extra-Hepatic Portal Venous Obstruction in Pregnant Women of South-Asian Descent: A Case Series

Liver diseases complicate approximately 3% of pregnancies worldwide, and require specialized care to ensure optimal pregnancy outcomes. Extra-hepatic portal venous obstruction (EHPVO), even though asymptomatic in a majority of the cases, has a higher risk of variceal bleeding in pregnancy and adverse pregnancy outcomes. In this series, we describe five cases of EHPVO presenting during pregnancy at our tertiary care hospital, their antenatal management, and delivery outcomes. In our case series on EHPVO in pregnancy, a majority of the women were diagnosed during childhood and adequately asymptomatic before pregnancy. Two women underwent Endoscopic band ligation for esophageal varices and one woman underwent splenectomy before pregnancy for disease control. One woman was Anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) positive and another was Anti-phospholipid antibody (APLA) positive, while the other three did not have pre-existing thrombotic tendencies. One patient required Endoscopic band ligation during pregnancy. Pregnancy complicated by hypertension was noted in two of the five women (40%). Four of the five women (80%) had thrombocytopenia requiring blood products during delivery. Two women underwent preterm vaginal delivery, and one woman underwent preterm Caesarean section because of placental abruption. Three women had a post-partum hemorrhage, which was effectively managed with uterotonics and blood products. All five women and their neonates were discharged in good health. Multi-disciplinary approach with standardized antenatal care can give positive pregnancy outcomes in women with EHPVO.

Using disruptive innovation to design endoscopic ligators for resource-challenged health settings.

Commercial single-use endoscopic multiband ligators, used for esophageal variceal band ligation (EVL), are prohibitively expensive. To enable greater access to EVL, we used disruptive innovation to develop a novel endoscopic multiband ligator. We designed and tested a prototype handle 'ENDOhandle' using computer-aided design modeling and exported a cap, trigger cord and latex to form a functional banding unit. The cost of the banding unit was US$4.80 compared with several hundred US dollars for commercially available devices in the USA. Disruptive innovation technology developed an inexpensive ligator for resource-challenged health settings.

Combination of carvedilol with variceal band ligation in prevention of first variceal bleed in Child-Turcotte-Pugh B and C cirrhosis with high-risk oesophageal varices: the ‘CAVARLY TRIAL’

ObjectivesBeta-blockers and endoscopic variceal band ligation (VBL) have been preferred therapies for primary prophylaxis of variceal bleeding. However, the choice of therapy in patients with advanced liver disease with high-risk...

Self-assembling peptide improves the efficacy and safety of endoscopic band ligation for colonic diverticular bleeding

Self-assembling peptide improves the efficacy and safety of endoscopic band ligation for colonic diverticular bleeding

S963 Efficacy of Carvedilol Plus Variceal Band Ligation Compared to Carvedilol Alone in Primary Prophylaxis of Variceal Bleed in Cirrhosis With High-Risk Varices: A Single Center Randomized Controlled Study

S963 Efficacy of Carvedilol Plus Variceal Band Ligation Compared to Carvedilol Alone in Primary Prophylaxis of Variceal Bleed in Cirrhosis With High-Risk Varices: A Single Center Randomized Controlled Study

Redefining hemorrhoid therapy with endoscopic polidocanol foam sclerobanding.

Hemorrhoids are a common and painful condition, with conventional treatments such as endoscopic rubber band ligation (ERBL) and injection sclerotherapy often falling short due to high recurrence rates and significant post-operative pain. A clinical trial by Qu et al introduces a novel approach called endoscopic poli-docanol foam sclerobanding (EFSB). This multicenter randomized trial involved 195 patients with grade II and III internal hemorrhoids and demonstrated that EFSB significantly reduced recurrence rates and post-procedural pain while improving symptom relief and patient satisfaction compared to ERBL. The study's strengths include its robust design, comprehensive outcome evaluation, and patient-centered approach. Despite limitations such as the single-blind design and relatively short follow-up period, the findings suggest that EFSB could enhance clinical practice by offering a more effective and patient-friendly treatment option. Further research is needed to validate these results and explore the long-term benefits and cost-effectiveness of EFSB.

Comparing Endoscopic Treatment Modalities for Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasia: Efficacy, Safety, and Outcomes in a Network Meta-analysis.

Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is characterized by vascular ectasias accounting for 4% of nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeds, which can range from occult bleeds to severe acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding. In turn, GAVE can lead to severe morbidity and recurrent hospitalization. Current endoscopic treatments for GAVE include argon plasma coagulation (APC), endoscopic band ligation (EBL), and radiofrequency ablation. With this significant burden in mind, a systematic review and network meta-analysis were conducted to compare the efficacy and safety of various modalities in the treatment of GAVE. All studies that involved adults and children with endoscopic characteristics of GAVE undergoing treatment with APC, EBL, radiofrequency ablation, or a combination of 2 treatment modalities were included. There was no statistical difference in the rate of adverse events and the number of red blood cell transfusions across all 3 groups (APC, EBL, and APC + EBL). However, statistical differences were noted for outcomes of bleeding recurrence, length of hospitalization, and change in hemoglobin status. EBL exhibited a significant decrease in bleeding recurrence when compared with APC. Moreover, shorter hospitalization stays were seen in APC + EBL and EBL groups compared with APC, and a beneficial change in hemoglobin status was also more often seen in APC + EBL and EBL groups compared with APC. Based on this study, EBL was found to have superior efficacy when compared with APC for the treatment of GAVE; however, there was no significant difference in rates of adverse events between APC, EBL, and combination therapy.

Treatment of Hemorrhoidal Disease in Patients with Liver Cirrhosis: A Systematic Review

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> The incidence of hemorrhoidal disease (HD) in cirrhotic patients is similar to that of general population, varying between 21% and 79%. Managing this clinical condition in these patients is challenging, due to the need to differentiate between bleeding originating from hemorrhoids or anorectal varices, and the unique hemostatic balance of each patient, which can lead to a decompensation of liver function and subsequently increase the anesthetic risk. To date, there are no systematic reviews specifically addressing this topic. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> This was a systematic review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies were retrieved from three electronic databases. Efficacy (symptomatic improvement, patient satisfaction, quality of life improvement, disease recurrence/need for surgery and/or hemorrhoidal prolapse reduction in anoscopy) and safety (reported adverse events) outcomes were evaluated. Data from each study were initially described individually, followed by a comparative analysis for procedures applied in multiple studies. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Six studies were included – 1 randomized clinical trial (RCT), 2 prospective cohort studies, 1 retrospective cohort study, and 2 case series. The considered techniques encompassed rubber band ligation (RBL), injection sclerotherapy (IS) using 3 agents – aluminum potassium sulfate and tannic acid (ALTA), ethanolamine oleate 5% (EAO), or N-butyl-cyanoacrylate, hemorrhoidopexy, and emborrhoid technique. RBL showed great symptomatic improvement and patient satisfaction in 63% and 73% of patients, respectively, and in 90% was associated with one-grade prolapse reduction after only one session. The most frequently reported adverse events included pain (16%) and ulceration/fissure (1–17%). Concerning IS, symptomatic improvement was observed in all patients. Recurrence rates varied with the agent used (EAO: 13% at 12 months; N-butyl-cyanoacrylate: 40% at 12 months; ALTA: 18% at 5 years), and 86.7% of patients exhibited more than one-grade reduction after the initial session. The most frequent adverse event was pain (EAO: 63%; N-butyl-cyanoacrylate: 60%). Stapled hemorrhoidopexy resulted in symptomatic improvement in all patients, although associated with a recurrence rate of 25% within 4 months. With an emborrhoid technique, 80% of the patients showed clinical improvement at a 3-month follow-up, without significant adverse events, at the cost of a 40% recurrence rate. <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> All the treatment methods assessed in the included studies appear to be effective and safe in cirrhotic patients. This assumption challenges previous concerns regarding significant bleeding after office-based procedures like RBL in this population. Future research should prioritize RCT to thoroughly assess the management of HD in these patients, particularly addressing polidocanol foam sclerotherapy, a minimally invasive technique that has previously been shown to be more effective than RBL in the general population and in patients with bleeding disorders.

Aetiology and Feasibility of Endoscopic Interventions for Massive Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Makurdi, North-Central Nigeria

Abstract Introduction: Massive upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a life-threatening emergency with high mortality. Emergency upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, endotherapy, interventional radiology, and surgery are necessary to control the bleeding source and restore normal physiology. However, these interventions are suboptimal in most centres in Nigeria, contributing to the dismal mortality observed in this condition. Objectives & Methodology: We aimed to determine the aetiology, feasibility of endoscopic intervention, and outcome of management of massive UGIB in Madonna Hospital, Makurdi, over a 30-month-period by retrospectively reviewing the medical and procedural records of patients presenting with hypotension from an endoscopically diagnosed upper GI bleeding source. Result: A total of 39 patients were identified, with a mean age of 49.3 ± 17.7 years. Among them, 27 were males (69.2%) and 12 were females (30.8%). Bleeding peptic ulcers were the cause of massive UGIB in 21 cases (53.8%), followed by variceal bleeding, observed in 10 (25.6%) cases. Most of these cases were amenable to endoscopic treatment using adrenaline injection, endoclips, endoscopic variceal band ligation, and diathermy fulguration. Thirty-three (84.6%) patients survived, while the in-hospital mortality following initial endoscopic intervention was 6 out of 39 patients (15.4%), which is comparable to figures from more advanced climes. Conclusion & Recommendation: Endoscopic management of massive UGIB is feasible in a low-resource setting. However, timely access to emergency endoscopy is vital to reduce mortality. Strategies to reduce risk factors for peptic ulcers and oesophageal varices are necessary to reduce the incidence of massive UGIB in Makurdi, Nigeria.

Comparison of 24 vs 72-hr octreotide infusion in acute esophageal variceal hemorrhage - A multi-center, randomized clinical trial

BackgroundCurrent guidelines lack clarity about the optimal duration of octreotide therapy for patients with esophageal variceal hemorrhage (EVH). To address this lack of evidence, we conducted a randomized clinical trial (RCT) of 24-hr versus 72-hr continuous infusion of octreotide for patients with EVH. MethodsThis multi-center, prospective RCT (NCT03624517), randomized patients with EVH to 24-hr versus 72-hr infusion of octreotide. Patients were required to undergo esophageal variceal band ligation prior to enrollment. The primary endpoint was rebleeding rate at 72 hr. The study was terminated early due to an inability to recruit during and after the COVID-19 epidemic. ResultsFor patients randomized to 72-hr (n = 19) of octreotide vs 24-hr (n = 15), there were no differences in the need for transfusion, average pRBC units transfused per patient (3 units vs 2 units), infection (5 % vs 0 %), mechanical ventilation (11 % vs 7 %), or the need for vasopressors (5 % vs 3 %), respectively (none of these differences were statistically significantly different). There were 2 re-bleeding events in the 72-hr group (11 %), and no re-bleeding events in the 24-hr group (p = 0.49). 8/15 of patients receiving 24 hr of octreotide were discharged at or before hospital day 3 while none in the 72-hr group was discharged before day 3 (p < 0.001). There was one death (in the 72-hr group) within 30 days. ConclusionsA 24-hr infusion is non-inferior to a 72-hr infusion of octreotide for prevention of re-bleeding in patients with EVH. We propose that shortened octreotide duration may help reduce hospital stay and related costs in these patients.

Comparison of Non-Surgical Methods for Treating Hemorrhoids

Introduction and purpose Hemorrhoidal disease is one of the most common proctological problems worldwide. The etiology of hemorrhoidal disease has not been fully explained. Authors note that lifestyle factors and dietary habits are primarily responsible for hemorrhoidal disease. These include: a low-fiber diet, constipation, a sedentary lifestyle, and suboptimal body position during defecation commonly observed in Western societies. Due to the high prevalence of the disease in the population and the associated decrease in quality of life, outpatient procedural treatments that are highly effective and allow for a quick return to normal activity are very popular among patients. The aim of this study is to discuss non-surgical methods of hemorrhoid treatment. Material and methods This paper was based on a review of materials available on PubMed, searched using the following keywords: “hemorrhoids”, “sclerotherapy”, “rubber band ligation”, „infrared coagulation”, „laser hemorrhoidoplasty”, „Doppler guides hemorrhoidal artery ligation”. Results In recent years, there has been a significant development in non-surgical techniques for treating hemorrhoids, which are widely used in patients with grade I-III hemorrhoids and can be performed in an outpatient setting or during short hospital stays with the use of regional anesthesia, such as: Sclerotherapy, rubber band ligation, Infrared coagulation, Laser hemorrhoidoplasty, Doppler Guides Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation. Conclusion In conclusion, non-surgical methods for the treatment of hemorrhoids offer a range of effective alternatives to conventional surgery. The choice of treatment should be individualized, taking into account the severity of the hemorrhoidal disease, patient preferences, and the potential for complications.

Endoscopic band ligation: a simple, safe, and effective method for refractory diverticular bleeding (with video)

Endoscopic band ligation: a simple, safe, and effective method for refractory diverticular bleeding (with video)

Global treatment of haemorrhoids-A worldwide snapshot audit conducted by the International Society of University Colon and Rectal Surgeons.

There is no universally accepted treatment consensus for haemorrhoids, and thus, management has been individualized all over the world. This study was conducted to assess a global view of how surgeons manage haemorrhoids. The research panel of the International Society of University Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ISUCRS) developed a voluntary, anonymous questionnaire evaluating surgeons' experience, volume and treatment approaches to haemorrhoids. The 44 multiple-choice questionnaire was available for one month via the ISUCRS email database and the social media platforms Viber and WhatsApp. The survey was completed by 1005 surgeons from 103 countries; 931 (92.6%) were in active practice, 819 (81.5%) were between 30 and 60 years of age, and 822 (81.8%) were male. Detailed patient history (92.9%), perineal inspection (91.2%), and digital rectal examination (91.1%) were the most common assessment methods. For internal haemorrhoids, 924 (91.9%) of participants graded them I-IV, with the degree of haemorrhoids being the most important factor considered to determine the treatment approach (76.3%). The most common nonprocedural/conservative treatment consisted of increased daily fibre intake (86.9%), increased water intake (82.7%), and normalization of bowel habits/toilet training (74.4%). Conservative treatment was the first-line treatment for symptomatic first (92.5%), second (72.4%) and third (47.3%) degree haemorrhoids; however, surgery was the first-line treatment for symptomatic fourth degree haemorrhoids (77.6%). Rubber band ligation was the second-line treatment in first (50.7%) and second (47.2%) degree haemorrhoids, whereas surgery was the second-line treatment in third (82.9%) and fourth (16.7%) degree symptomatic haemorrhoids. Rubber band ligation was performed in the office by 645(64.2%) of the participants. The most common surgical procedure performed for haemorrhoids was an excisional haemorrhoidectomy for both internal (87.1%) and external (89.7%) haemorrhoids - with 716 (71.2%) of participants removing 1, 2 or 3 sectors as necessary. Although there is no global haemorrhoidal treatment consensus, there are many practice similarities among the different cultures, resources, volume and experience of surgeons around the world. With additional studies, a consensus statement could potentially be developed.

Outcome of proton pump inhibitor plus sucralfate vs sucralfate alone vs proton pump inhibitor alone vs no treatment post endoscopic esophageal variceal band ligation- a randomized controlled trial

Outcome of proton pump inhibitor plus sucralfate vs sucralfate alone vs proton pump inhibitor alone vs no treatment post endoscopic esophageal variceal band ligation- a randomized controlled trial

Review article: Oesophageal disorders in chronic liver disease.

Oesophageal disorders and chronic liver disease are common worldwide and significantly impact quality of life. The intricate link between these conditions, including how oesophageal disorders like GERD, Barrett's oesophagus and oesophageal cancer affect and are affected by chronic liver disease, remains poorly understood. To review the relationship between oesophageal disorders and chronic liver disease, evaluating epidemiology, pathophysiology and therapeutic factors. We reviewed the literature on the relationship between oesophageal disorders and chronic liver disease, including cirrhosis, using the PubMed database RESULTS: Oesophageal disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, Barrett's oesophagus, oesophageal cancer, oesophageal motor disorders and oesophageal candidiasis are prevalent among individuals with cirrhosis, exacerbating the burden of liver disease. These diseases have a multifaceted symptomatology and pathogenic basis, posing a significant challenge in cirrhotic patients that necessitates careful diagnosis and management. Additionally, therapies frequently used for these diseases, such as proton pump inhibitors, require careful consideration in cirrhotic patients due to potential adverse effects and altered pharmacokinetics. Managing oesophageal disorders in cirrhotic patients requires a cautious approach due to possible interactions with medications and the risk of adverse effects. Furthermore, symptoms associated with these conditions are often exacerbated by common interventions in patients with cirrhosis, such as band ligation for oesophageal varices. Oesophageal disorders are common in cirrhosis and increase the disease burden. These conditions require careful management due to complex symptoms and treatment risks. Proton pump inhibitors and other therapies must be used cautiously, as cirrhosis interventions can worsen symptoms.

Endoscopic polidocanol foam sclerobanding for the treatment of grade II-III internal hemorrhoids: A prospective, multi-center, randomized study.

Endoscopic rubber band ligation (ERBL) is a nonsurgical technique for the treatment of symptomatic internal hemorrhoids but is limited by recurrence and post-procedural pain. To evaluate satisfaction, long-term recurrence, and post-procedural pain in managing internal hemorrhoids using a combination of polidocanol foam sclerotherapy and ERBL. This was a prospective, multicenter, randomized study. A total of 195 consecutive patients diagnosed with grade II-III internal hemorrhoids were enrolled from four tertiary hospitals and randomly divided into a cap-assisted endoscopic polidocanol foam sclerobanding (EFSB) or an ERBL group. All patients were followed-up for 12 months. Symptom-based severity and post-procedural pain were assessed using a hemorrhoid severity score (HSS) and a visual analog scale (VAS). Continuous variables were reported as medians and interquartile range. One hundred and ninety-five patients were enrolled, with 98 in the EFSB group. HSS was lower in the EFSB group than in the ERBL group at 8 weeks [4.0 (3.0-5.0) vs 5.0 (4.0-6.0), P = 0.003] and 12-month [2.0 (1.0-3.0) vs 3.0 (2.0-3.0), P < 0.001] of follow-up. The prolapse recurrence rate was lower in the EFSB group at 12 months (11.2% vs 21.6%, P = 0.038). Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that EFSB treatment [B = -0.915, 95% confidence interval (CI): -1.301 to -0.530, P = 0.001] and rubber band number (B = 0.843, 95%CI: 0.595-1.092, P < 0.001) were negatively and independently associated with the VAS score 24 hours post-procedure. The median VAS was lower in the EFSB group than in the ERBL [2.0 (1.0-3.0) vs 3.0 (2.0-4.0), P < 0.001]. Cap-assisted EFSB provided long-term satisfaction and effective relief from the recurrence of prolapse and pain 24 hours post-procedure.