ABSTRACT

Esophageal variceal bleeding is a serious complication of portal hypertension in cirrhotic patients. Current treatment approach consists of band ligation and sclerotherapy. More than 10% of variceal bleedings are refractory to standard treatments and have a higher mortality rate. In this study, we aimed to share our experiences regarding covered self-expanding metal stent (SEMS) as a bridging therapy to permanent treatments, which decrease portal blood pressure, such as TIPS and surgery in two refractory variceal bleeding patients who were referred to our hospital with a past history of multiple band ligations to esophageal varies. (JAREM 2016; 6: 119-21)