Long-term results of surgical treatment for bleeding oesophageal varices in children with portal hypertension

The long-term results of surgical treatment for bleeding oesophageal varices in children with portal hypertension are reviewed. Twenty-four children below the age of 13 years who presented with gastrointestinal bleeding over a 20-year period form the basis of this study. The importance of the aetiology of portal hypertension on the long-term follow-up has been studied. The results of surgical treatment in controlling haemorrhage are assessed. Though extrahepatic obstruction is considered to be associated with a better long-term prognosis than intrahepatic disease the results of treatment in both groups were similar, with a 7-year survival rate of 75 per cent. Shunt surgery as a definitive procedure is advised in both groups, though the type of shunt used will depend on the age of the child and the site of obstruction.