Radiofrequency ablation for gastric antral vascular ectasia

The aim of endoscopic radiofrequency ablation for gastric antral vascular ectasia (GAVE) is to ablate the dilated blood vessels and stop internal bleeding.

The procedure is usually done with the patient under conscious sedation. A specially designed radiofrequency catheter is inserted into the gastric antrum under endoscopic guidance. The target area for treatment is identified, and the catheter electrode is positioned by manoeuvring the endoscope. The electrode is in the form of a plate, which allows a broad area to be treated in a few seconds by applying several pulses of radiofrequency energy. The electrode is applied to further areas of GAVE until all have been treated. If necessary, the procedure can be repeated after a few weeks: it is often carried out 2 or 3 times.