Comparison of 1% sodium tetradecyl sulfate to a thrombogenic sclerosant cocktail for endoscopic sclerotherapy.

This preliminary report suggests superior efficacy of a mixture of Sodium Tetradecyl Sulfate, thrombin and cefazolin (ST-Thr-Cef) over 1% Sodium Tetradecyl Sulfate (ST) in the early control of variceal bleeding. The overall management of patients treated with ST-Thr-Cef was superior as indicated by fewer hospital days and lesser transfusion requirements. Though trends were suggestive, we were unable to demonstrate a survival advantage for patients treated with ST-Thr-Cef. There was a low number of complication in both treatment groups and they were easily managed.