Question:

Sengstaken Blakemore tube is used in:

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The SB tube works by balloon tamponade of a specific vascular complication of portal hypertension.
Updated On: Jun 23, 2026
  • Bleeding esophageal varices
  • Boerhaave syndrome
  • Carcinoma esophagus
  • Achalasia cardia
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Identify the Sengstaken Blakemore (SB) tube.
The Sengstaken Blakemore tube is a multi-lumen tube with two balloons: an esophageal balloon and a gastric balloon. It also has ports for gastric aspiration.

Step 2: Understand its mechanism and indication.
When inflated, the gastric balloon is pulled upward against the gastroesophageal junction to provide tamponade of bleeding gastric fundal varices. The esophageal balloon when inflated provides direct pressure on bleeding esophageal varices. The SB tube is used as a temporary, life-saving tamponade measure in actively bleeding esophageal or gastric varices when pharmacological and endoscopic therapies have failed or are unavailable.

Step 3: Rule out other options.
Boerhaave syndrome (esophageal perforation from vomiting) is a contraindication to balloon insertion. Carcinoma esophagus and achalasia cardia are not indications for SB tube use.

Conclusion: The Sengstaken Blakemore tube is used in bleeding esophageal (and gastric) varices as a tamponade device.
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