Early experience with the Boerema button for bleeding oesophageal varices

Early experience with the use of the Boerema button for bleeding oesophageal varices is reported. A simplified technique for its insertion is described, and of the 6 patients so treated, only 1 died. No patient has re-bled in the short follow-up period available, and oesophageal appearances suggest that prolonged relief from bleeding can be anticipated. Further exploration of the button ligation transection technique is suggested not only for control of acute bleeding, but also for patients unsuitable for shunt surgery.