How often should varices be checked?

[MississaugaLiver]

My husband had three separate episodes of variceal bleeds in the fall of 2020. Esophageal and gastric varices which were either banded or glued. Sent home and no follow up, nothing. Now 18 months later he was back in hospital with another gastric bleed. It took four endoscopies to finally locate and glue. Plus transfusion due to blood loss. It’s was in the duodenum. His hemoglobin was down to 60. My question is this. We live in Ontario, Canada and there doesn’t appear any routine follow up care. What is the norm in other countries? Should he be having an annual endoscopy to check for additional varices? Should he be seeing a gastroenterologist? Our family physician is the one that orders his prescriptions and requisitions for blood work. It seams like the messaging here is, we’ll treat you well the next time your on death’s doorstep, but nothing preventative.

[pushthrough]

I’m so sorry to hear about your husband and the lack of follow up. I’m in the states and they spotted 2 small grade varices. I know have to get endoscopies once a year. My first follow up is coming up. They def should be monitored. Best of luck!

[AyrshireK]

My hubby had a massive bleed from varices in April 2012 and then underwent regular varices screening & banding (3 monthly). When he moved to the main liver unit his doctor there set about treating (banding) every 6-8 weeks until June 2014 when varices were deemed eradicated. From then on he has had an annual endoscopy. This year is the first he isn't getting an endoscopy and they will repeat in 2023.

[MississaugaLiver in reply to AyrshireK]

Thanks for the feedback.