Endoscopic Management of Portal Hypertension and Varices.

Chronic liver disease as well as various other conditions can change vascular resistance in the portal system thereby leading to portal hypertension. Acute gastroesophageal variceal bleeding is a dreaded complication of portal hypertension associated with high morbidity and mortality. Historically, endoscopy in the management of portal hypertension was limited to the prevention and treatment of esophageal varices. However, advancements in endoscopic-ultrasound techniques and availability of new devices have opened a new frontier in the management of gastric varices. Additionally, advancements in endoscopic techniques now allow for a more comprehensive diagnostic approach to portal hypertension. In this review, we summarize the role of endoscopy in the management of portal hypertension and varices.