Intervention effect of ventilator‑assisted emergency endoscopy in the treatment of cirrhosis‑associated esophagogastric variceal bleeding.

Abstract

Introduction: Emergency endoscopy has proven remarkably effective in the treatment of gastrotestinal bleeding. However, its efficacy has not been extensively evaluated specifically in patients with cirrhosis‑associated esophagogastric variceal bleeding (EGVB). The patients may experience stress and anxiety before being subjected to the procedure.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effect of ventilator‑assisted emergency endoscopy in the treatment of cirrhosis‑associated EGVB.

Materials and methods: A total of 63 patients with cirrhosis‑associated EGVB were enrolled in the study and divided into 2 groups using the random number table method. The control group (n = 31) received conventional emergency endoscopic hemostasis, while the observational group (n = 32) underwent ventilator‑assisted emergency endoscopic hemostasis. The hemostatic success rate, post‑treatment rebleeding rate, postoperative complication rate, length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU), cost of hospitalization, and the patients' feeling of comfort (eg, fever and anxiety) were assessed in both groups.

Results: There were no significant differences in the hemostatic success rate, rebleeding rate, mortality, length of stay in the ICU, or cost of hospitalization between the groups. The symptoms and feelings of anxiety and pain in the observational group were significantly less intense than in the control group. However, there was no significant difference in the frequency of postoperative fever between the groups.

Conclusions: In the emergency endoscopic treatment of patients with cirrhosis‑associated EGVB, using a ventilator ensures a smooth airway, keeps patients sedated throughout the procedure, and enhances their overall comfort. Ventilator‑assisted emergency endoscopy helps alleviate postoperative pain and reduces anxiety.