What is Glue Injection?
Glue injection, also known as endoscopic cyanoacrylate injection, is a specialized procedure used to treat bleeding gastric varices (enlarged veins in the stomach). This minimally invasive treatment involves injecting medical-grade glue into the varices to seal them and stop bleeding, making it a life-saving procedure for patients with severe liver disease or portal hypertension.

When is Glue Injection Recommended?

• Bleeding gastric varices due to liver cirrhosis or portal hypertension

• High-risk varices detected during an endoscopic examination

• A history of gastrointestinal bleeding that requires preventive treatment

• Failure of other treatments, such as band ligation, for certain varices

How is Glue Injection Performed?

1. Preparation:

   • The patient must fast for 6–8 hours before the procedure.

   • A sedative or anesthesia is administered to ensure comfort.

2. Endoscopic Guidance:

   • A thin, flexible endoscope with a camera is inserted through the mouth into the stomach.

3. Glue Injection:

   • A medical adhesive (cyanoacrylate glue) is injected directly into the varices using a specialized needle.

   • The glue solidifies instantly, sealing the bleeding veins and preventing further rupture.

4. Completion & Recovery:

   • The procedure typically takes 20–30 minutes.

   • Patients are observed for a few hours and usually discharged the same day.

   • Mild discomfort or temporary bloating may occur after the procedure.

Benefits of Glue Injection

• Rapid bleeding control to prevent life-threatening complications

• Minimally invasive with no need for surgery

• Effective for gastric varices, where banding may not be suitable

• Prevents future bleeding episodes in high-risk patients