Evaluating the Practice of Prescribing Beta-blockers in Compensated Cirrhosis by Gastroenterologists in the Asia Pacific Region.

Non-selective beta-blockers (NSBBs) have a role in the management of portal hypertension. They are currently advocated in patients with clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) based on Baveno-VII consensus. Current survey aimed to evaluate the practice and perceptions of prescribing NSBBs in portal hypertension by gastroenterologists and hepatologists in Asia–Pacific region in patients with compensated cirrhosis. Out of 1500 gastroenterologists approached in the region, 328 gastroenterologists responded and completed the survey. 75% of the respondents were found not to be following practice of evaluating CSPH as they prescribed NSBBs in patients of compensated cirrhosis with high-risk varices only. Major concerns raised were non-availability of hepatic venous pressure gradient and reliable non-invasive tests as surrogate of CSPH to adapt PREDESCI methodology. While 56.7% used carvedilol as the preferred NSBB to treat patients with compensated cirrhosis, 43.3% used propranolol. This survey assessed the real-world scenario of prescribing NSBBs among practicing gastroenterologists/hepatologists in patients with compensated cirrhosis. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]