Endoscopic measurement of intravascular pressure in esophageal varices.

Endoscopic measurement of the pressure in esophageal varices is a new approach providing further insight into the pathophysiology of portal hypertension. To date the invasive direct puncture techniques are considered to be reference methods for the recently developed non-invasive pressure sensor. The latter is a reliable alternative in patients with large varices. Studies reported so far support the assumption that intravariceal pressure is one of the major risk factors for the development of variceal bleeding. There is a strong positive correlation between pressure and size of varices. The study of physiological parameters and drugs influencing portal hypertension is of particular interest. Endoscopic pressure measurement, therefore, could help to plan further clinical trials including drugs which are considered to lower variceal pressure.