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Invasive Hemodynamic Characterization of the Portal-hypertensive Syndrome in Cirrhotic Rats
09:37

Invasive Hemodynamic Characterization of the Portal-hypertensive Syndrome in Cirrhotic Rats

Published on: August 1, 2018

Portal hypertensive bleeding

Kevin M Comar1, Arun J Sanyal

  • 1Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, MCV Box 980711, Sanger Hall 12011, Richmond, VA 23298-0711, USA.

Gastroenterology Clinics of North America
|December 31, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Cirrhosis patients need endoscopy to assess bleeding risks from esophageal varices, gastric varices, or portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG). Treatment involves beta-blockers, endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL), or other therapies to prevent and manage bleeding.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Hepatology
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Portal hypertension bleeding is a frequent and severe complication in cirrhosis patients.
  • Early evaluation for bleeding causes like varices and PHG is crucial for all cirrhosis patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for portal hypertension bleeding in cirrhosis.
  • To emphasize the importance of risk stratification and tailored treatment approaches.

Main Methods:

  • Endoscopic evaluation for varices and PHG.
  • Pharmacologic therapy with nonselective beta-blockers for high-risk varices.
  • Hepatovenous pressure gradient (HVPG) measurements for monitoring therapy.
  • Endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) for refractory cases.
  • Pharmacologic agents (terlipressin, somatostatin, octreotide) for acute bleeding.
  • Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) or surgery as salvage therapies.

Main Results:

  • Nonselective beta-blockers are recommended for primary prevention of variceal hemorrhage.
  • HVPG monitoring is optimal for assessing pharmacologic therapy success.
  • Acute bleeding management requires resuscitation, complication prevention, and bleeding control.
  • Terlipressin, somatostatin, or octreotide are indicated for acute esophageal variceal and PHG bleeding.
  • Gastric variceal bleeding treatment lacks a standardized optimal approach, requiring individualized plans.

Conclusions:

  • Comprehensive endoscopic evaluation and risk assessment are fundamental for managing portal hypertension bleeding.
  • A multi-modal approach combining pharmacologic, endoscopic, and interventional therapies is necessary.
  • Individualized treatment strategies are essential, particularly for gastric variceal bleeding.

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