The prognostic value of the INR-to-platelet ratio for predicting rebleeding and mortality following endoscopic band ligation: A multicenter retrospective study

Objective: Esophageal variceal bleeding is one of the most severe complications of cirrhosis and is associated with a high risk of rebleeding and mortality. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of the international normalized ratio–to–platelet ratio (INR/PLT) in predicting six-month rebleeding and mortality after endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL).Materials and Methods: In this retrospective multicenter study, 85 cirrhotic patients who underwent EVL for esophageal variceal bleeding between February 2022 and September 2024 were analyzed. Demographic data, clinical characteristics, and laboratory parameters at admission were recorded. Child–Pugh and Model for End-Stage Liver Disease–Sodium (MELD-Na) scores were calculated. The INR/PLT ratio was derived from admission INR and platelet values. The primary endpoints were six-month rebleeding and all-cause mortality.Results: The median age was 63 (26–85) years, and 34.1% were female. Within six months, mortality occurred in 18 patients (21.2%), and rebleeding developed in 15 patients (17.6%). Patients who died had significantly higher MELD-Na scores (23.5 vs. 11; p