Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 14, 2026
09:40
An Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy Designed to Minimize Anastomotic Complications and Optimize Conduit Function
Published on: April 17, 2020
Six years' experience of oesophageal transection for oesophageal varices, using a circular stapling gun
Gut
|September 1, 1982
Abstract:
Eighty patients with bleeding oesophageal varices, who were considered to be unfit for shunt surgery, were treated by oesophageal transection and subdiaphragmatic devascularisation. The overall hospital mortality was 14% and, after an average follow-up of nearly three years, 69% are still alive. Late recurrent bleeding occurred in 14 patients but varices were shown to be responsible in only four. Postoperative portal systemic encephalopathy has not been a problem.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction
Esophageal varices are dilated, tortuous veins which are found mainly in the submucosa of the lower esophagus but which may also appear higher up or extend into the stomach. They develop due to increased pressure in the portal venous system, often as a result of liver cirrhosis. This condition scars and damages the liver, impeding normal blood flow through the portal vein. To compensate, blood seeks alternative pathways, forming fragile new vessels (varices) in the esophagus and stomach. These...
01:28Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
Esophageal varices often manifest as gastrointestinal bleeding episodes, presenting symptoms like hematemesis (vomiting of blood), hematochezia (passing fresh blood via the rectum), and melena (black, tarry stools). Other signs can include weight loss, anorexia, abdominal discomfort, jaundice, pruritus, altered mental status, and muscle cramps.
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol abuse, or...
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol abuse, or...