Esophageal Varices:

• These are enlarged veins in the lower part of the esophagus, often caused by high blood pressure in the portal vein (portal hypertension), usually due to liver cirrhosis.
• If these veins rupture, they can cause significant, life-threatening bleeding.

Banding Procedure:

• Endoscopic Banding: The procedure is typically performed during an endoscopy, where a thin, flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) is inserted through the mouth into the esophagus.
• Application of Bands: Once the varices are located, small rubber bands are placed around the base of the enlarged veins. This cuts off the blood supply to the varices, causing them to shrink and eventually fall off, reducing the risk of bleeding.
• Outpatient Procedure: Banding is usually done on an outpatient basis and typically requires only local anesthesia or mild sedation.

Purpose:

• To prevent or treat bleeding from esophageal varices.
• To manage varices in patients with portal hypertension as part of the overall treatment for liver disease.

Risks and Complications:

• While generally safe, banding can have risks, including discomfort, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), chest pain, ulcers at the banding site, and, in rare cases, rebleeding.

Recovery:

• After the procedure, patients may need to follow specific dietary guidelines and take medications to reduce stomach acid and help the healing process.
• Regular follow-up endoscopies may be needed to monitor the varices and reapply bands if necessary.