Carvedilol Versus Endoscopic Band Ligation for Primary Prophylaxis of Oesophageal Variceal Bleeding

Launched by SHERIEF ABD-ELSALAM · Aug 1, 2020

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is comparing two different methods to help prevent bleeding from enlarged veins in the esophagus, a condition known as esophageal varices, in patients who have liver cirrhosis and high blood pressure. The study is looking at whether a medication called carvedilol or a procedure called endoscopic band ligation is more effective at keeping these veins from bleeding. Patients eligible for the trial must be over 18 years old, have cirrhosis, and show signs of medium to large esophageal varices, but they cannot have a history of bleeding from these veins or certain other serious health conditions.

If you or a family member decide to participate, you can expect to be monitored closely throughout the study to see how well the chosen treatment works and if there are any side effects. The trial is currently recruiting participants and is open to all genders. It's important to discuss with your doctor to see if this study is a good fit, especially if there are any other health issues or medications involved. This research aims to find the best way to manage the risk of bleeding in patients with this serious condition.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • • Aged \>18 years
• • Cirrhotic patients with arterial hypertension
• • Endoscopic evidence of medium/large-sized esophageal varices
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • • History of variceal bleeding or previous primary prevention of varices.
• • Portal vein thrombosis or previous porto-systemic shunts as TIPS.
• • Patients on drugs affecting portal pressure (beta blockers, nitrates).
• • Advanced cardiovascular disease including acute myocardial infarction, atrio-ventricular block, congestive heart failure, chronic peripheral ischemia, severe bradycardia.
• • Patients with severe respiratory diseases (COPD, bronchial asthma).
• • Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus
• • Renal impairment
• • Hepatocellular carcinoma
• • Allergy to carvedilol
• • Pregnancy or lactation