Ultrasound Evaluation of Esophageal Varices

Abstract

To prospectively evaluate the clinical usefulness of transabdominal ultrasound in the detection of esophageal varices. Trans abdominal ultrasound was performed in 50 known patients of cirrhosis or idiopathic portal hypertension. The intraabdominal esophagus was demonstrated satisfactorily. Ultrasound evaluation of esophagus was also done in 50 patients who presented with problems not related to hepatic portal system. The thickness of the anterior wall of the intraabdominal esophagus was measured and the irregularity of the wall surface also noted. The mean thickness of the esophageal wall was 5.7mm ± 1.7 (standard deviation) in patients with portal hypertension and 3.6mm ± 0.96 in the control group. The difference was statistically significant (P <.001) there was also irregularity of the wall surface in patients of portal hypertension. Transabdominal ultrasound can play a role in screening for esophageal varices. The intraabdominal esophagus should be observed during standard abdominal ultrasound in patients with chronic liver disease.