Learn about Endoscopic Variceal Ligation Treatment in Turkey — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Endoscopic Variceal Ligation and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Endoscopic Variceal Ligation

Endoscopic Variceal Ligation (EVL), also known as band ligation, is a minimally invasive procedure performed by a gastroenterologist to treat enlarged, fragile veins (varices) in the esophagus or stomach. These varices are a serious complication of liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension, posing a high risk of life-threatening bleeding. During the procedure, the gastroenterologist uses a flexible endoscope to place small elastic bands around the varices, which cuts off their blood supply. The ligated varices then shrink, scar, and fall off within days, significantly reducing the risk of hemorrhage. EVL is the first-line treatment for both preventing initial bleeding (primary prophylaxis) and stopping active or recurrent bleeding. It is a highly effective outpatient procedure that offers a safer alternative to older surgical methods.

Key Highlights

    Minimally invasive procedure with no external incisions.Highly effective in controlling and preventing life-threatening variceal bleeding.Typically performed as an outpatient or short-stay procedure.Lower risk profile compared to surgical shunt procedures.Can be repeated for surveillance and treatment of new varices.Often allows for quicker recovery and return to normal activities./ul

Who is this surgery for?

  • Primary prophylaxis: To prevent a first episode of bleeding in patients with medium or large esophageal varices.
  • Acute variceal hemorrhage: To stop active bleeding from esophageal varices.
  • Secondary prophylaxis: To prevent re-bleeding in patients with a history of variceal hemorrhage.
  • Gastric varices (specific types) that are amenable to banding.
  • Patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension diagnosed with significant varices via endoscopy.

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive medical evaluation, including blood tests and imaging, to assess liver function and bleeding risk.
  • Patient must fast (no food or drink) typically for 6-8 hours before the procedure.
  • Adjustment or temporary cessation of blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin, warfarin, clopidogrel) as advised by the doctor.
  • Intravenous (IV) access will be established for sedation and fluids.
  • Informed consent process detailing the procedure, benefits, and risks.
  • Arrangement for a responsible adult to drive the patient home after the procedure due to sedation.

Risks & possible complications

  • Post-procedure chest pain or discomfort, which is usually temporary.
  • Sore throat from the endoscope.
  • Risk of bleeding from the banding site, though this is the condition being treated.
  • Perforation (a tear) of the esophagus, which is rare but serious.
  • Adverse reactions to sedative medications.
  • Recurrence of varices, requiring repeat surveillance endoscopy and treatment.
  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) immediately after the procedure.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Patients are monitored in a recovery area until sedation wears off (1-2 hours).
  • Mild chest discomfort, bloating, or a sore throat are common for 24-48 hours.
  • A soft or liquid diet is recommended for the first 24 hours post-procedure.
  • Patients should avoid strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and driving for at least 24 hours.
  • Follow-up endoscopy is usually scheduled in 2-4 weeks to check the treated varices and apply more bands if needed.
  • Long-term management involves treating the underlying liver disease and regular endoscopic surveillance.
  • Contact the doctor immediately for severe pain, fever, difficulty breathing, or vomiting blood.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 0-1 days (Often outpatient)
  • checked Expected recovery time: 1-3 days for normal activities; 2-3 weeks for complete internal healing

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering endoscopic variceal ligation in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for endoscopic variceal ligation compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 272 – USD 761 0-1 days (Often outpatient) ~ 1-3 days for normal activities; 2-3 weeks for complete internal healing Know More
Turkey USD 2,013 – USD 5,637 0-1 days (Often outpatient) ~ 1-3 days for normal activities; 2-3 weeks for complete internal healing Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

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Gastroenterologists for Endoscopic Variceal Ligation

Explore experienced gastroenterologists who regularly perform endoscopic variceal ligation and provide pre- and post-operative care in Turkey.

Dr. Ümit Koç
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Gastroenterologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ümit Koç
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Gastroenterologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ümit Koç
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Gastroenterologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ümit Koç
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Gastroenterologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ümit Koç
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Gastroenterologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ümit Koç
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Gastroenterologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ümit Koç
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Gastroenterologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ümit Koç
  • 10 Years Experience
  • Gastroenterologist
Speaks: English, Turkish
Available Today
January: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Liv Hospital Ankara

OPD-desk synced • Updated