Simple, effective procedure with few complications for esophageal varices

The surgical morbidity, mortality, and effectiveness of a modified nonshunting operation that includes splenic artery division instead of splenectomy, devascularization, and esophageal transection (SAD group) were evaluated. Eighteen cirrhotic patients with varices who underwent this modified procedure were compared with 54 patients treated with a conventional nonshunting operation (splenectomy group). Results show that immediate effects on portal pressure and preservation of portal perfusion between the two groups were similar. The operative time is shorter (p