Esophageal Varices and Cirrhosis Management

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to esophageal varices and their management, including definitions and important medical terms.

Esophageal Varices

Dilated tortuous veins in the submucosa of the lower esophagus, caused by portal hypertension.

Portal Hypertension

Increased blood pressure in the portal venous system, often due to liver obstruction.

Hematemesis

Vomiting of blood, which is a clinical manifestation of esophageal varices.

Melena

Black, tarry stools resulting from bleeding in the upper gastrointestinal tract.

Vasoactive Drugs

Medications used in the management of esophageal varices, including octreotide and vasopressin.

Endoscopic Sclerotherapy

A procedure where a sclerosing agent is injected into bleeding varices to promote thrombosis and sclerosis.

Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS)

A procedure used to treat acute uncontrolled bleeding by creating a pathway between the portal and systemic venous systems.

Beta Blockers

Medications like propranolol that decrease portal pressure to prevent bleeding episodes.

Balloon Tamponade

A temporary measure to control hemorrhage in patients with esophageal varices.

Complications

Possible adverse effects of esophageal varices management, including encephalopathy and high morbidity.