ENDOSCOPIC VARICIAL LIGATION
Endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) is a procedure in which an enlarged vein or a varix (the plural is varices) in the esophagus is tied off or ligated by a rubber band delivered via an endoscope. It is also called rubber band ligation.
What happens to varices after banding?
Banding the vein will cut off blood flow through the vein. The banded tissue develops into a small ulceration that quickly heals after several days or a few weeks. Variceal banding can be done several times to control enlarged varices and prevent bleeding.
What is the prognosis for esophageal varices?
Bleeding esophageal varices is life-threatening condition and can be fatal in up to 50% of patients. People who have had an episode of bleeding esophageal varices are at risk for bleeding again. Treatment with variceal ligation is effective in controlling first-time bleeding episodes in about 90% of patients.