Endoscopy with Sclerotherapy

Endoscopy with Sclerotherapy: Advanced Care for Esophageal Bleeding

Medical advancements have revolutionized the way we treat complex health issues, and endoscopy with sclerotherapy is a shining example. We offer this cutting-edge procedure to patients throughout Colorado at Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates. It’s an effective, minimally invasive way to manage and treat esophageal bleeding. We’ve outlined the procedure and who is a candidate for it below, but please call us with any additional questions you may have.

What Is an Endoscopy with Sclerotherapy?

Endoscopy with sclerotherapy is a medical procedure used to diagnose and treat esophageal bleeding. This issue may occur due to conditions such as esophageal varices, which are swollen veins caused by increased pressure in the portal vein. It’s most commonly seen in patients with liver disease or cirrhosis. Endoscopy with sclerotherapy is a dual-purpose approach that allows us to diagnose and treat esophageal bleeding in the same session. You can experience immediate relief and long-lasting results thanks to:

• Endoscopy – We’ll insert a small, flexible camera into the esophagus to closely examine the affected area.
• Sclerotherapy – Our experts can then inject a specialized solution into the source of bleeding to shrink or eliminate problematic veins.

Determining Whether You Need an Endoscopy with Sclerotherapy

We typically suggest endoscopy with sclerotherapy for individuals experiencing or at risk of esophageal bleeding. Prompt action can prevent serious complications. Consult our expert gastroenterologists immediately if you experience any of the following conditions:

• Esophageal Varices – These swollen veins, which are primarily caused by liver disease, are the primary culprit for bleeding in the esophagus.
• Severe Gastrointestinal Bleeding – Patients with unexplained bleeding can benefit from this procedure. We can locate the source and stop it.
• Persistent Chest Pain or Vomiting Blood – If you experience either symptom, let us evaluate you to determine if endoscopy with sclerotherapy is appropriate.
• High-Risk Patients – We perform preventative sclerotherapy for patients with chronic liver disease or other conditions that elevate portal vein pressure.

What Are the Benefits of Endoscopy with Sclerotherapy?

If you’re looking for a practical and safe option for esophageal bleeding, endoscopy with sclerotherapy is ideal. It’s a preferred modern healthcare solution because of benefits including:

• Minimally Invasive – Unlike traditional surgical methods, this procedure doesn’t require large incisions.
• Immediate Results – Sclerotherapy stops active bleeding and reduces the likelihood of recurrence.
• Dual Diagnosis and Treatment – The endoscopy allows our specialists to visualize and treat the affected area simultaneously.
• Quick Recovery Time – Patients typically resume normal activities much quicker than they can with surgical procedures.
• Reduced Complications – With better precision and lower risks than open surgery, endoscopy with sclerotherapy is a safe alternative.

Understanding the Procedure’s Potential Risks

While endoscopy with sclerotherapy is highly effective, all medical procedures have inherent risks. We’ll assess your health history to mitigate any concerns and ensure you’re an ideal candidate. However, potential complications may include:

• Throat pain or discomfort
• Infection, although this is rare and highly preventable with proper post-care
• Minor bleeding at the injection site
• Rare adverse reactions to the injected solution

Outlining the Endoscopy with Sclerotherapy Process

The endoscopy with sclerotherapy process is straightforward. You’ll need to fast for 8-12 hours before the procedure to ensure your stomach and esophagus are empty. When we’re ready to begin, we’ll administer sedation or anesthesia for your comfort. Your doctor will then insert the endoscope through your mouth and into the esophagus. Using the camera’s visuals, we’ll identify problematic veins or the bleeding source. Next, we’ll inject a sclerosing agent into the affected vein, causing it to collapse and eventually be absorbed by your body. The process usually takes 30-60 minutes, followed by a brief observation period until sedation wears off.

What to Expect After Your Appointment

You might feel minor throat soreness or bloating after the procedure, but these effects should subside within a couple of days. We recommend monitoring all of your symptoms and letting us know if you experience any persistent pain or unusual bleeding. Otherwise, post-care instructions will simply include:

• Rest for one day before resuming normal activities
• Avoid spicy, rough-textured, or acidic foods for 24-48 hours
• Schedule a follow-up endoscopy to monitor the treatment’s effectiveness

Contact Us Today

Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates takes pride in offering exceptional care across Colorado. Our highly skilled specialists use state-of-the-art technology and advanced tools to provide patient-centered care. If you or someone you know can benefit from endoscopy with sclerotherapy, don’t wait. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our gastroenterologists.