Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Nutrition  2013;16(1):1-9

doi:10.5223/pghn.2013.16.1.1

Recent Trends in the Endoscopic Management of Variceal Bleeding in Children.

Seung Jin KIM 1 ; Kyung Mo KIM

Affiliations

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Keywords

Esophageal and gastric varices; Prevention & Control; Therapeutics; Child

Country

Republic of Korea

Language

English

Abstract

Variceal bleeding results in significant morbidity and mortality in both children and adults. The guidelines for the management of variceal bleeding are well established in adults but not in children as there have been insufficient pediatric studies of this disorder. In addition, the adult guidelines for treatment of variceal bleeding cannot be applied directly to children as the etiology and natural course of this disease differs between children and adults. Examples of recommended treatments in children include endoscopic variceal ligation as secondary prophylaxis for biliary atresia whereas a meso-Rex shunt operation for extrahepatic portal vein obstruction. In this review, we discuss prophylaxis options and some technical aspects of endoscopic management for variceal bleeding in children.