Esophageal varices are abnormal and dilated veins that form in the esophagus, usually in its lower half, and are a possible consequence of chronic liver diseases. These varices present a high risk of bleeding.
In addition to the preventive aspect, elastic ligation of esophageal varices can also be performed in cases of active upper gastrointestinal bleeding originating in an esophageal varice, thus functioning as an effective treatment for this complication.
