Variceal Glue Injection
Steps Involved in IVF:
Procedure Description
Variceal Glue Injection is a specialized medical procedure designed to treat bleeding varices—enlarged veins in the esophagus or stomach that are prone to rupture in individuals with liver disease, particularly those with portal hypertension. This minimally invasive approach involves the injection of a special adhesive agent (often cyanoacrylate-based) directly into the varices. The adhesive agent hardens quickly upon contact, sealing the veins and stopping or preventing bleeding. This treatment has been particularly effective in managing acute variceal hemorrhage, which is a life-threatening condition requiring immediate intervention.
The procedure is typically performed endoscopically, allowing doctors to access the varices without making external incisions. An endoscope, a flexible tube with a camera, is inserted through the mouth and guided down the esophagus or into the stomach. The camera helps the physician locate the varices and precisely inject the adhesive solution. This controlled approach helps achieve targeted results while minimizing the risks and discomfort associated with traditional open surgical methods.
This technique offers promising results for patients suffering from chronic liver diseases, such as cirrhosis, which often leads to the formation of varices due to increased pressure in the portal vein system. Patients who undergo variceal glue injection often experience rapid stabilization, making it a crucial option for those with severe gastrointestinal bleeding. The procedure is generally performed by gastroenterologists or interventional radiologists who specialize in endoscopic and vascular treatments.
Procedure Duration
The duration of a Variceal Glue Injection procedure typically spans a few hours, though the exact timing can vary depending on individual factors such as the number and size of varices, the patient’s overall health, and the specific clinical approach taken by the medical team. Generally, the endoscopic procedure itself takes about 30 to 60 minutes, but preparation and post-procedural observation extend the total time. Patients are often sedated to minimize discomfort during the endoscopy, which involves a short preparation period for sedation administration.
After the procedure, patients are observed for several hours to ensure they are stable and to monitor for any immediate side effects. The adhesive hardens quickly, so the risk of post-procedural bleeding is reduced significantly. However, medical teams take extra precautions to ensure that no migration or leakage of the glue has occurred, which could lead to complications in the gastrointestinal system.
The recovery phase typically varies based on the patient's health and the severity of the condition treated. For instance, if the procedure was done as an emergency intervention, the patient might require extended hospitalization for further stabilization and additional treatments related to their underlying liver condition. Patients undergoing elective or preventative procedures often have a shorter recovery period and may resume normal activities within a few days, although continued follow-up is essential to assess the treatment's effectiveness and monitor liver health.
Benefits
- Effective Hemorrhage Control: Stops acute bleeding quickly and efficiently, which is essential for patients with life-threatening variceal hemorrhage.
- Minimally Invasive: As an endoscopic procedure, Variceal Glue Injection avoids large incisions, leading to shorter recovery times.
- Reduces Risk of Recurrent Bleeding: By sealing off varices, the procedure lowers the risk of future bleeding episodes, providing lasting relief.
- Short Recovery Time: Patients typically require minimal recovery, allowing them to resume daily activities faster compared to open surgery.
- Ideal for High-Risk Patients: The procedure is suitable for patients with liver disease who may not be candidates for more invasive surgeries.
Potential Destinations
- Thailand
Known for its advanced medical infrastructure and highly qualified specialists, Thailand has become a sought-after destination for variceal treatments, including glue injections. The country’s medical facilities are internationally accredited, offering cutting-edge technology and services at a more affordable cost compared to Western countries.
- India
India offers comprehensive gastroenterology and hepatology care, and the expertise in endoscopic procedures is widely recognized. Patients can expect state-of-the-art medical facilities staffed by experienced doctors and support teams, all at competitive prices, making it an attractive option for international patients.
- Turkey
Turkey is well-regarded for its healthcare system and medical tourism infrastructure. The country’s hospitals are equipped with the latest technologies for endoscopic procedures, and medical teams are adept at handling complex cases. Turkey’s location and medical quality make it convenient for patients traveling from Europe and the Middle East.
- South Korea
South Korea is a leader in medical technology and innovation, providing exceptional care across various specialties. With a robust system supporting international patients, South Korean hospitals offer high standards in endoscopic and vascular procedures, including variceal glue injections, with strong aftercare programs.
- Mexico
As a close destination for patients from the United States and Canada, Mexico offers quality healthcare services, particularly in cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara. Mexican hospitals are known for their affordability, expertise in gastroenterology, and streamlined processes for medical tourists.
Risks & Considerations
- Adhesive Migration: The injected glue could potentially migrate from the variceal site to other parts of the gastrointestinal system, causing blockages or other complications.
- Infection Risk: Despite being minimally invasive, any endoscopic procedure has a risk of introducing infections, especially in patients with compromised liver function.
- Risk of Rebleeding: While glue injection effectively seals the varices, there remains a risk of rebleeding, especially in patients with ongoing liver disease.
- Potential for Allergic Reaction: Some patients may have an adverse reaction to the glue or other materials used in the procedure.
- Follow-Up Requirement: Regular monitoring is necessary to evaluate the long-term success of the procedure, as underlying conditions like liver disease need ongoing management.
How to Choose the Right Doctor and Hospital
Selecting the right doctor and hospital is crucial for a successful Variceal Glue Injection. When choosing a healthcare provider, ensure that the doctor has substantial experience in endoscopic procedures, specifically in treating esophageal and gastric varices. The doctor’s specialization in gastroenterology or interventional radiology, combined with expertise in managing liver disease complications, will ensure high-quality care.
It's equally essential to select a hospital with advanced endoscopic and emergency care facilities. Look for institutions known for treating international patients, as they tend to have dedicated departments and multilingual staff for medical tourists. Reviews, accreditations, and patient testimonials can provide additional insights into the quality of care, ensuring a safe and efficient experience.
To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote
Patients are advised to seek hospitals that are accredited by Global Healthcare and only work with medical tourism facilitators who are certified by Global Healthcare Accreditation or who have undergone certification from the Certified Medical Travel Professionals (CMTP). This ensures that the highest standards in the industry are met. GHA accredits the top hospitals in the world. These are the best hospitals in the world for quality and providing the best patient experience. Click the link to check out hospitals accredited by the Global Healthcare Accreditation: https://www.globalhealthcareaccreditation.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What actually happens during hyperstimulation of the ovaries?
The patient will take injectable FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) for eight to eleven days, depending on how long the follicles take to mature. This hormone is produced naturally in a woman’s body causing one egg to develop per cycle. Taking the injectable FSH causes several follicles to develop at once, at approximately the same rate. The development is monitored with vaginal ultrasounds and following the patient’s levels of estradiol and progesterone. FSH brand names include Repronex, Follistim, Menopur, Gonal-F and Bravelle. The patient injects herself daily.
What happens during egg retrieval?
When the follicles have developed enough to be harvested, the patient attends an appointment where she is anesthetized and prepared for the procedure. Next, the doctor uses an ultrasound probe to guide a needle through the vaginal wall and into the follicle of the ovary. The thin needle draws the follicle fluid, which is then examined by an embryologist to find the eggs. The whole process takes about 20 minutes.
What happens to the eggs?
In the next step, the harvested eggs are then fertilized. If the sperm from the potential father, or in some cases, anonymous donor, has normal functionality, the eggs and sperm are placed together in a dish with a nutrient fluid, then incubated overnight to fertilize normally. If the sperm functionality is suboptimal, an embryologist uses Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection to inject a single sperm into a single egg with an extremely precise glass needle. Once fertilization is complete, the embryos are assessed and prepared to be transferred to the patient’s uterus.
How are the embryos transferred back to the uterus?
The doctor and the patient will discuss the number of embryos to be transferred. The number of successfully fertilized eggs usually determines the number of eggs to be placed in the uterus. Embryos are transferred to the uterus with transabdominal ultrasound guidance. This process does not require anesthesia, but it can cause minor cervical or uterine discomfort. Following transfer, the patient is advised to take at least one days bed rest and two or three additional days of rest, then 10 to 12 days later, two pregnancy tests are scheduled to confirm success. Once two positive tests are completed, an obstetrical ultrasound is ordered to show the sac, fetal pole, yolk sac and fetal heart rate.
Embryoscope©
Built into this technology there is a microscope with a powerful camera that allows the uninterrupted monitoring of the embryo during its first hours of life. In this way, we can keep a close eye on the embryo, from the moment when the oocyte is inseminated and begins to divide into smaller and smaller cells, until it can be transferred to the uterus.
Orthopedics Stem Cell
Knee
Research on mesenchymal stem cells regenerative properties in knee osteoarthritis. In these studies, researchers suggest that Stem Cell Therapy has the potential to regenerate lost cartilage, stop and reverse cartilage degeneration, provide pain relief, and improve patient mobility.
Shoulder
Stem Cell Therapy as an Alternative to Rotator Cuff & Shoulder Replacement Surgery. Stem cell therapy may offer an excellent alternative for patients looking to avoid shoulder joint replacement surgery, as well as many other surgical treatments for shoulder pain.
Ankle
If you suffer from chronic or acute ankle pain or instability due to arthritis, cartilage loss, ligament strain or tear, or tendon damage, then you may benefit from non-surgical stem cell treatments or stem cell-enhanced surgery.
Back Pain
Patients now have a minimally invasive option. Stem cell therapy for back pain and disc herniations can potentially repair the damaged disc or facet joint, restore function, rehydrate the disc, and ultimately alleviate chronic pain.
Anti-Aging Stem Cell
Hair Loss
Stem cell therapy and PRP therapy have been shown to be most effective for: Those in the early stages of hair loss, patients who are not viable candidates for surgery and women who prefer to avoid hair surgery.
Facial Anti-Aging
Aesthetic Anti-Aging. The Aesthetic Stem Cell Localized Treatment is a non-surgical minimally invasive procedure to enhance the appearance of aging skin and hair restoration. This all-natural technique combines dermal injections of bone marrow or adipose tissue derived stem cells and growth factors.
Fertility Stem Cell
Endometrial PRP
The stem cells used for treatment of a thin endometrium include mesenchymal stem cells. In addition, successful repair of the endometrium in pregnancy with stem cells has been reported previously.
Low Ovarian Reserve (PRP)
The treatment uses PRP (Platelet-Rich-Plasma), which with stem cell therapy is the novel therapeutic approach for restoring the quality of the ovarian reserve.Your PRP will contain a physiologic balance of platelets, growth factors and white blood cells tailored specifically for you.
Punta Mita Hospital
Mexico
Punta Mita Hospital - Genesis Cell
Mexico
