Abstract |
We report on 17 patients with GAVE-syndrome ( gastric antral vascular ectasia) treated by means of endoscopic argon plasma coagulation (APC). 16 of 17 patients presented with iron deficiency anemia; transfusion-dependent anemia was noted in 11 patients (65%). Resolution of the gastric angiectasia could be achieved in all patients by endoscopic APC after 1-4 treatment sessions. Endoscopic follow-up revealed recurrence of GAVE in 5 patients (requiring further treatment sessions). Mean pretreatment hemoglobin level of 78 g/l improved to 115 g/l after treatment. Only one patient needed post-treatment transfusions; she had refused further endoscopy. The mean follow-up was 30.4 months (range 1-65). In one case circumferential scarring of the antrum led to asymptomatic stenosis 6 months after APC; at the same time early recurrence of extensive angiectasia occurred. Billroth I resection was performed. No other complications were observed. Our results show that argon plasma coagulation is an effective and safe treatment for gastrointestinal blood loss due to GAVE syndrome ( watermelon stomach). Control endoscopies are indicated in order to recognize and treat recurrence of angiectasia on time.
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Authors | A Probst, R Scheubel, M Wienbeck |
Journal | Zeitschrift fur Gastroenterologie
(Z Gastroenterol)
Vol. 39
Issue 6
Pg. 447-52
(Jun 2001)
ISSN: 0044-2771 [Print] Germany |
PMID | 11474999
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
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Topics |
- Aged
- Aged, 80 and over
- Anemia, Iron-Deficiency
(etiology)
- Female
- Follow-Up Studies
- Gastrectomy
- Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasia
(diagnosis, surgery)
- Gastroscopy
- Humans
- Laser Coagulation
- Male
- Middle Aged
- Postoperative Complications
(diagnosis, surgery)
- Recurrence
- Reoperation
- Syndrome
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