Endoskopische Diagnose von Ösophagusvarizen

Summary

Esophageal varices are a constant threatening because of bleeding. Therefore varices should be excluded in every patient with chronic liver disease or hemorrhage from the upper gastrointestinal tract. Esophagoscopy is the most reliable diagnostic procedure. The X-ray examination was, according to our own experience, only in 44% of the demonstrated varices successful in making the correct diagnosis (acc. to Brick and Palmer only in 25%). If there is any doubt an inflatable balloon around the instrument may block the venous flow so that the varices protrude. By this method the differential diagnosis between varices and mucosal folds can easily be done. Only in rare instances are there any contraindications for this examination.

Key-Words

Esophagoscopy - esophageal varices - balloon-blocking - gastrointestinal bleeding