Pitfalls in histoacryl glue injection therapy for oesophageal,gastric and ectopic varices: A review

Histoacryl glue is used increasingly for the treatment of gastric and ectopic varices, and there is experience in its use for oesophageal varices. It is an effective treatment, yet numerous reports of complications have accumulated. This review of the literature describes the technique, explores circulatory and vascular consideration unique to portal hypertension and categorises the complications into: “Embolisation”, “local venous thrombosis”, “fistulisation and extravascular injection”,“ulceration, erosion and extrusion”, and “nidus of infection”. A case is then made for standardisation of the technique and the consent process.