Detachable Snares (Endoloop)

Endoscopic hemostasis can be achieved by chemical, thermal, and mechanical means. The role of detachable snares or endoloops has been widely described in mechanical hemostasis, and this manuscript reviews their history, indications for use, and the endoscopic techniques involved. Some novel clinical applications for detachable snares will also be reviewed. Clinical evidence supports their use in the management of postpolypectomy bleeding, bleeding from esophageal and gastric varices, and angiodysplasias. Prospective randomized controlled trials utilizing this device are few in number and are still needed to define their role in the field of gastrointestinal endoscopy.