Cost saving by reloading the multiband ligator in endoscopic esophageal variceal ligation: a proposal for developing countries.

Aim: To assess the cost savings of reloading the multiband ligator in endoscopic esophageal variceal ligation (EVL) used on the same patient for subsequent sessions.

Methods: This single centre retrospective descriptive study analysed patients undergoing variceal ligation at a tertiary care centre between 1st January, 2003 and 30th June, 2006. The multiband ligator was reloaded with six hemorrhoidal bands using hemorrhoidal ligator for the second and subsequent sessions.

Giardiasis in patients with dyspeptic symptoms.

Aim: To investigate the prevalence of giardiasis in patients with dyspeptic symptoms.

Methods: Clinical records of consecutive patients who attended Gastroenterology Department at Aga Khan University Hospital from January 2000 to June 2003 and had esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) with duodenal biopsies and international classification of diseases 9th revision with clinical modifications (ICD-9-CM) coded with giardiasis were studied.

Results: Two hundred and twenty patients fulfilled the above criteria.