Management of bleeding ectopic varices

Ectopic varices are a heterogeneous group of portosystemic shunts that occur in the presence of portal hypertension. The shunts occur throughout the abdomen and pelvis, including the gallbladder, the genitourinary system, and the retroperitoneal space, but are most common within the bowel (small intestine and colon) and at the mucocutaneous junction of a stoma. Bleeding rates vary depending on the location but overall ectopic varices account for 1 –5% of all variceal bleeding and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality.

Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy - March 28, 2017 Category: Gastroenterology Authors: Zachary H. Henry, Stephen H. Caldwell Source Type: research