[Endoscopic sclerosing of esophageal varices--technique, possibilities and limits of the method]

The paper intends to give a survey of the significance of endoscopic sclerotherapy in gastro-esophageal varices. The control of an acute bleeding can be achieved in a high percentage (70-95%). However, the hospital mortality has persisted in 30% depending on early rebleeding episodes and alterations in hepatic function. Controlled trials have confirmed a lowering of rebleeding risk as well as an improved survival by repeated sclerotherapy. The effectiveness of prophylactic sclerosing before the first bleeding is uncertain because of contrary results published. A prophylactic application seems to be favourable in patients at high risk of bleeding only.