There are few complications. In some studies it requires fewer sessions than sclerotherapy, although one study found that it was not as effective as TIPS in preventing re-bleeding. Balloon tamponade employs a tube inserted through the nose and down through the esophagus until it reaches the upper part of the stomach. A balloon at the tube's end is inflated and positioned tightly against the esophageal wall. It is usually deflated in about 24 hours.
Serious complications can occur, the most dangerous being rupture of the esophagus.
A recurrence of bleeding following this procedure is common. Drug Therapies for Lowering Portal Hypertension and Preventing Variceal Bleeding Beta-Blockers. Beta-blockers, including propranolol and nadolol, used alone or with sclerotherapy, reduce the heart rate and can lower portal vein pressure, thereby reducing bleeding. Beta-blockers are also used as a primary approach for prevention of recurrence. It is not yet clear if these drugs are more effective against bleeding than sclerotherapy, but they are inexpensive and safe.