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DOI: 10.1055/s-0034-1391395
Gastric antral vascular ectasia: a prospective study of treatment with endoscopic band ligation
Publication History
submitted 12 November 2014
accepted after revision 07 December 2014
Publication Date:
04 February 2015 (online)
![](https://www.thieme-connect.de/media/endoscopy/201506/lookinside/thumbnails/131_10-1055-s-0034-1391395-1.jpg)
Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is characterized by red, angiomatous lesions in the antrum organized either in stripes or in a diffuse pattern that can be associated with upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Endoscopic band ligation (EBL) has been reported as an effective alternative therapy for patients with GAVE. Consecutive patients with a diagnosis of GAVE were prospectively followed while undergoing EBL every 2 months. Hemoglobin, ferritin, and iron levels were frequently recorded, and clinical follow-up was performed. A total of 21 patients with GAVE were enrolled, and 17 of these patients (81 %) had associated co-morbidities, most frequently cirrhosis and chronic renal failure. A clinical response was achieved in 19 patients (91 %). A significant improvement in the mean hemoglobin level was noted after EBL (P < 0.001), and a significant decrease in blood transfusion requirements per month (P = 0.001). No major complications were observed during the study period. The mean follow-up was 10 months. EBL is an effective and safe treatment for GAVE. Randomized, controlled trials comparing EBL with other endoscopic therapies are warranted.
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