[Beta-blockers in the prevention of the rupture of esophageal varices. A meta-analysis].

The meta-analysis of 5 trials for primary prevention and of 18 trials of secondary prevention emphasizes the effect of beta-blockers in the decrease of variceal bleedings in cirrhosis. Beta-blockers are reducing the bleeding events with 32% in the primary prevention and with 28% in the secondary prevention. The mortality is reduced by 15%, respectively by 23%. This is the first meta-analysis reported in the Romanian gastroenterological literature.