Cyrotherapy vs. APC in GAVE

Prospective Randomized Study of Cryotherapy Versus Argon Plasma Coagulation Therapy for Treatment Of Watermelon Stomach

To see if either method of treatment for Watermelon Stomach shows better results

Watermelon stomach (WS) is endoscopically recognized by characteristic stripes of angioectasias involving primarily the antrum, and causes transfusion-dependent anemia in the majority of patients. Current endoscopic treatment options, including argon plasma coagulation (APC) Endoscopic cryotherapy is a novel technique that has the potential to safely and more effectively treat WS by virtue of its mechanism of injury and mode of application.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Confirmed WS at endoscopy that is associated with significant anemia (Hb < 10 g/dl) and/or overt bleeding (melena, hematochezia or hematemesis) and/or blood transfusions within the past 6 months
2. Able to give informed consent
3. Age > 18 years

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Endoscopic or histological findings inconsistent with WS
2. Known coagulopathy (INR > 2), severe thrombocytopenia (platelet count < 50,000), or bleeding diathesis
3. Endoscopic treatment of WS within the past month
4. Unable or unwilling to give informed consent.