Is Endoscopic Band Ligation a Superior Treatment Modality for Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasia Compared to Argon Plasma Coagulation?

Abstract

Background/Aims: Gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is a rare acquired vascular lesion of the gastric antrum. The most frequent presentation of GAVE is iron deficiency anemia. Endoscopic therapy is the mainstay of treatment. However, there is no consensus regarding the optimal treatment modality.Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed on patients with GAVE, including patients receiving endoscopic therapy. Treatment was with either argon plasma coagulation (APC) or endoscopic band ligation (EBL). Basic demographic data, indication for index procedure, number of sessions, and pre- and post-hemoglobin levels were collected. The aim of the study was to compare outcomes across the two treatment modalities.Results: One hundred and seventeen diagnoses of GAVE were made. Sixty-two patients (53%) required endoscopic treatment for symptomatic GAVE (female, n=38, 61%; mean age of 74.4 years). Two hundred and eighteen procedures were performed during the study period. APC was performed (n=161, 74%) more frequently than EBL (n=57, 26%). Patients treated with APC at index required a median 5 subsequent therapeutic interventions (APC or EBL), while those treated with EBL at index required a further 2.9 treatments (EBL only) (p<0.05).Conclusions: APC was the most common treatment modality employed. We demonstrate an increasing incidence of EBL. Patients treated with EBL at index treatment required fewer subsequent treatment sessions and had a greater mean rise in hemoglobin. This suggests a more effective endoscopic response with EBL.

Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasia (GAVE) a case report, review of the literature and update of techniques

“…This technique is supported by a limited number of studies [27] , [28] , [29] , [30] , showing a low complication rate. The method has wide availability, and the short procedure time makes it more tolerated.…”

“…However, the available evidence suggests that it is equally effective and tolerable compared with APC requiring fewer sessions [29] . Moreover, RFA seems to be effective also on patients with APC-refractory GAVE.…”

“…Moreover, RFA seems to be effective also on patients with APC-refractory GAVE. More controlled trials are necessary to evaluate its efficacy, safety, and reliability [29] , [33] .…”

Snare-tip spray spark coagulation technique for bleeding secondary to gastric antral vascular ectasia

“…Gastric antral vascular ectasia is a condition characterized by dilatation of blood vessels in the gastric mucosa. Argon plasma coagulation (APC) was reportedly effective in treating the condition with progressive anemia [1][2][3][4][5]. However, APC requires special equipment and probe preparation.…”