Portal hypertension and esophageal varices are two of the main complications of liver cirrhosis. Bleeding from esophageal varices causes death in about 20% of cases. Current international guidelines recommend conventional endoscopic screening (esophagogastroduodenoscopy) for patients with cirrhosis every few years to detect esophageal varices. Recent innovations in capsule endoscopy show promise that it can be an accurate diagnostic tool in screening these patients.

This program will provide an overview of the significance of varices in the cirrhosis patient. Moreover, current therapeutic options, including traditional endoscopy, will be evaluated. Current clinical data regarding the new technology of capsule endoscopy will be assessed. Additionally, based on this data, participants will be able to apply key learnings to case vignettes that include actual videos of capsule endoscopy procedures and identify the benefits and limitations of this new technology in cirrhosis patients.

Gastroenterologists, primary care physicians and other healthcare professionals involved in the care of patients with gastrointestinal issues.

Educational Objectives

Upon completion of this educational activity participants will be able to:

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The views and opinions expressed in this activity are those of the faculty. They do not reflect the views of InScope, a division of Ethicon Endo-Surgery, any other manufacturer of pharmaceuticals, or ArcMesa Educators.

The recommendations made in this program are based upon a combination of randomized clinical trials, current guidelines, and the clinical practice experience of the participating panelists. Any medications, diagnostic procedures or treatments discussed by the panelists should not be utilized without evaluation of their patient's conditions. Participants are urged to consult the full prescribing information on any drug mentioned in this activity for recommended dosage, indications, contraindications, warnings, precautions, and adverse effects before prescribing any medication.