[Esophagus ligation on murphy button in the management of bleeding esophageal varices in children (author's transl)].

Bleeding esophageal varices in 9 children (among whom 5 with extra-hepatic and 4 with intra-hepatic obstruction) were treated by ligation of the esophagus on an anastomotic button. Two patients died, one presenting mesenteric infarction following splenectomy, the other due to mismanagement of postoperative esophagus stenosis. In the patients with extra-hepatic obstruction, no recurrent bleeding was noted and the varices have completely disappeared on X-Ray and endoscopy with nearly 5 years follow-up, which proves the efficiency of the method. In cases of intra-hepatic obstruction, this procedure remains useful for the management of advanced cirrhosis or as a temporary treatment to help a young infant over a dangerous period.