Balloon-Occluded Retrograde Transvenous Obliteration (BRTO) for Gastric Varices (GV) in Interventional Radiology (IR)

Balloon-Occluded Retrograde Transvenous Obliteration (BRTO) for Gastric Varices in Interventional Radiology (IR) Lauren Wiest Dr. Elaine Halesey, Ed.D., R. T. (R) (QM) Abstract This project explains gastric varices and the role the BRTO procedure has in treating gastric variceal bleeding. Statistics regarding gastric varices and the modified techniques of the procedure are discussed. Gastric varices are dilated veins that can rupture at any time and the main cause of gastric varices is portal hypertension. Gastric varices develop in approximately 20% of patients with portal hypertension. Portal hypertension is the result of liver disease or cirrhosis. The BRTO procedure has the potential to help patients suffering from gastric varices by obliterating these varices before they rupture or while their bleeding to save patients’ lives. This procedure can be performed using just an occlusion balloon, a plug, or coils to occlude the shunt. In some cases, doctors might use more than one technique. BRTO is an effective procedure used to treat gastric varices. Reports show that failure of the BRTO are rare. This minimally invasive procedure has high success rates and minimal complications. The high success rate of this procedure demonstrates how valuable this procedure really is. Keywords: Balloon-Occluded Retrograde Transvenous Obliteration (BRTO), Gastric Varices, Interventional Radiology (IR), Portal Hypertensionhttps://digitalcommons.misericordia.edu/medimg_seniorposters/1030/thumbnail.jp