Successful treatment of a bleeding umbilical varix by percutaneous umbilical vein embolization with sclerotherapy

J Clin Gastroenterol. 2012 Feb;46(2):115-8. doi: 10.1097/MCG.0b013e31822b7f9a.

Abstract

Bleeding caused by ectopic varices is an uncommon but important and life-threatening complication of portal hypertension. Spontaneous external hemorrhage from a recanalized umbilical varix is an extremely rare source of ectopic variceal bleeding. We report on the acute presentation of a patient with a bleeding umbilical varix and successful treatment with percutaneous umbilical vein embolization with sclerotherapy. This previously unreported technique is described, which adds a new therapeutic option for the management of this challenging clinical dilemma. A discussion on the recognition and management of ectopic varices is also provided.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Embolization, Therapeutic* / methods
  • Hemorrhage / etiology
  • Hemorrhage / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Hypertension, Portal / complications
  • Hypertension, Portal / pathology
  • Hypertension, Portal / therapy*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Sclerotherapy*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Umbilical Veins / pathology
  • Umbilicus / blood supply*
  • Umbilicus / pathology
  • Varicose Veins / complications
  • Varicose Veins / etiology
  • Varicose Veins / therapy*