Massive hemorrhage in the lower gastrointestinal tract in adults: diagnostic imaging and intervention

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 1993 Oct;161(4):703-11. doi: 10.2214/ajr.161.4.8372742.

Abstract

Massive hemorrhage in the lower gastrointestinal tract, defined as bleeding distal to the ligament of Treitz at a rate in excess of 30 ml/hr, is most common in persons more than 50 years old. Most episodes stop spontaneously, although intervention to control the bleeding is needed eventually in 10-25% of patients. This review analyzes the use of scintigraphy, angiography, and interventional techniques in the diagnosis and treatment of these patients.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiography
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / diagnostic imaging*
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / therapy
  • Humans
  • Methods
  • Radiography, Interventional
  • Radionuclide Imaging