What happens after the procedure?
Most people stay in the hospital at least one night for monitoring.
Leave dressings on for 24 hours, then you may remove them and shower.
Do not put any creams or medicines on the wound.
Replace bandage until the wound is closed, usually 24-48 hours.
Do not swim or soak the wound (bath or pool) until the wound is healed.
No exercise or exertion until the wound is healed (around 72 hours).
Symptoms you may notice:
You may feel groggy from the medicines used to keep you comfortable. Headache and nausea may occur but usually do not last longer than 12-24 hours.
You may have soreness and bruising around the wound.
Most patients will need to have an endoscopy after the procedure. This is where a small camera is passed down the throat and into your stomach to see how you responded to the treatment. Your clinician may also use a CT scan to check that the varices have closed.
When to call your clinician or 911?
Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher
Sudden trouble breathing or shortness of breath
Coughing up or vomiting blood
Lightheadedness, pale skin, or fast heartbeat
Bleeding, swelling, redness or darkness at the wound