Gastric Varices clinical trials at UCLA

A number of treatment modalities are currently in use for gastric variceal bleeding (GVB). Balloon-occluded, plug-assisted, and coil-assisted retrograde transvenous obliteration (RTO) procedures are described in the literature as treatments for GVB after a bleeding episode occurs. Preliminary data suggests that prophylactic treatment of gastric varices may improve patient outcomes compared to conservative management. This study aims to compare pre-emptive treatment of gastric varices with current recommended medical management in a randomized prospective study design. Eligible patients will be randomized to receive RTO or to continue conservative management. Patients will be followed for up to 2 years for comparison of clinical outcomes, including episodes of gastric variceal bleeding, overall survival and transplant-free survival, complications, and secondary interventions.