Acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding in 1,112 patients admitted to an urban emergency medical center

Clinical outcomes of lower gastrointestinal bleeding in patients managed with lower endoscopy: A tertiary center results

BACKGROUND

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is an urgent presentation with increasing prevalence and remains a common cause of hospitalization. The clinical outcome can vary based on several factors, including the cause of bleeding, its severity, and the effectiveness of management strategies. The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive report on the clinical outcomes observed in patients with LGIB who underwent lower endoscopy.

METHODS

All patients who underwent emergency lower endoscopy for fresh bleeding per rectum, from May 2015 to December 2021, were included. The primary outcome was to identify the rate of rebleeding after initial control of bleeding. The second was to measure the clinical outcomes and the potential predictors leading to intervention and readmission.

RESULTS

A total of 84 patients were included. Active bleeding was found in 20% at the time of endoscopy. Rebleeding within 90 days occurred in 6% of the total patients; two of which (2.38%) were within the same admission. Ninety-day readmission was reported in 19% of the cases. Upper endoscopy was performed in 32.5% of the total cases and was found to be a significant predictor for intervention (OR 4.1, P = 0.013). Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and initial use of sigmoidoscopy were found to be significant predictors of readmission [(OR 5.09, P = 0.008) and (OR 5.08, P = 0.019)].

CONCLUSIONS

LGIB is an emergency that must be identified and managed using an agreed protocol between all associated services to determine who needs upper GI endoscopy, ICU admission, or emergency endoscopy within 12 hours.

Characteristics, outcomes, and risk factors of surgery for acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding: nationwide cohort study of 10,342 hematochezia cases

BACKGROUND

Current evidence on the surgical rate, indication, procedure, risk factors, mortality, and postoperative rebleeding for acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (ALGIB) is limited.

METHODS

We constructed a retrospective cohort of 10,342 patients admitted for acute hematochezia at 49 hospitals (CODE BLUE J-Study) and evaluated clinical data on the surgeries performed.

RESULTS

Surgery was performed in 1.3% (136/10342) of the cohort with high rates of colonoscopy (87.7%) and endoscopic hemostasis (26.7%). Indications for surgery included colonic diverticular bleeding (24%), colorectal cancer (22%), and small bowel bleeding (16%). Sixty-four percent of surgeries were for hemostasis for severe refractory bleeding. Postoperative rebleeding rates were 22% in patients with presumptive or obscure preoperative identification of the bleeding source and 12% in those with definitive identification. Thirty-day mortality rates were 1.5% and 0.8% in patients with and without surgery, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed that surgery-related risk factors were transfusion need ≥ 6 units (P < 0.001), in-hospital rebleeding (P < 0.001), small bowel bleeding (P < 0.001), colorectal cancer (P < 0.001), and hemorrhoids (P < 0.001). Endoscopic hemostasis was negatively associated with surgery (P = 0.003). For small bowel bleeding, the surgery rate was significantly lower in patients with endoscopic hemostasis as 2% compared to 12% without endoscopic hemostasis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our cohort study elucidated the outcomes and risks of the surgery. Extensive exploration including the small bowel to identify the source of bleeding and endoscopic hemostasis may reduce unnecessary surgery and improve the management of ALGIB.

Evaluation of the Jichi Medical University diverticular hemorrhage score in the clinical management of acute diverticular bleeding with emergency or elective endoscopy: A pilot study

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Emergency endoscopic hemostasis for colonic diverticular bleeding is effective in preventing serious consequences. However, the low identification rate of the bleeding source makes the procedure burdensome for both patients and providers. We aimed to establish an efficient and safe emergency endoscopy system.

METHODS

We prospectively evaluated the usefulness of a scoring system (Jichi Medical University diverticular hemorrhage score: JD score) based on our experiences with past cases. The JD score was determined using four criteria: CT evidence of contrast agent extravasation, 3 points; oral anticoagulant (any type) use, 2 points; C-reactive protein ≥1 mg/dL, 1 point; and comorbidity index ≥3, 1 point. Based on the JD score, patients with acute diverticular bleeding who underwent emergency or elective endoscopy were grouped into JD ≥3 or JD <3 groups, respectively. The primary and secondary endpoints were the bleeding source identification rate and clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

The JD ≥3 and JD <3 groups included 35 and 47 patients, respectively. The rate of bleeding source identification, followed by the hemostatic procedure, was significantly higher in the JD ≥3 group than in the JD <3 group (77% vs. 23%, p <0.001), with a higher JD score associated with a higher bleeding source identification rate. No significant difference was observed between the groups in terms of clinical outcomes, except for a higher incidence of rebleeding at one-month post-discharge and a higher number of patients requiring interventional radiology in the JD ≥3 group than in the JD <3 group. Subgroup analysis showed that successful identification of the bleeding source and hemostasis contributed to a shorter hospital stay.

CONCLUSION

We established a safe and efficient endoscopic scoring system for treating colonic diverticular bleeding. The higher the JD score, the higher the bleeding source identification, leading to a successful hemostatic procedure. Elective endoscopy was possible in the JD <3 group when vital signs were stable.

A case report of transmural rectosigmoid ischemia in an elderly patient

INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANCE

While acute colonic ischemia is frequently observed in the elderly, rectal ischemia is a rare occurrence. We presented a case of transmural rectosigmoid ischemia in a patient who had not undergone any significant interventions and had no underlying diseases. Conservative treatment methods were unsuccessful, and surgical resection was necessary to prevent the development of gangrene or sepsis.

CASE PRESENTATION

Upon arrival at our health center, a 69-year-old man reported experiencing left lower quadrant pain and rectorrhagia. The CT scan revealed thickening in the sigmoid and rectum. Subsequent colonoscopy revealed circumferential ulcers, severe edema, erythema, discoloration, and ulcerative mucosa in both the rectum and sigmoid. Due to persistent severe rectorrhagia and worsening pathologic parameters, another colonoscopy was performed three days later.

CLINICAL DISCUSSION

Initially, conservative treatments were administered, but as the tenderness worsened, surgical exploration of the abdomen was necessary. During the procedure, a large ischemia from the sigmoid to the rectal dentate line was observed, and the lesion was resected. A stapler was then inserted into the rectum, followed by the use of the Hartman pouch method to deviate the tract. Finally, colectomy, sigmoidectomy, and rectal resection were performed.

CONCLUSION

Due to the worsening pathological condition of our patient, surgical resection was necessary. It is important to note that rectosigmoid ischemia, although rare, can develop without a known underlying cause. Therefore, it is crucial to consider and evaluate potential causes beyond the most common ones. Furthermore, any pain or rectorragia should be assessed immediately.

Adjunctive endoscopic clip marking enhances non-operative management of massive lower gastrointestinal bleeding

BACKGROUNDS

Massive lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGB) is common especially in elderly patients. Controversy in the approach to management stems from location of bleeding and morbidity of surgery. Colonic diverticula disease (CD) is the leading cause of painless haematochezia and haemodynamic instability.

METHODS

The use of a novel technique of endoscopic pre-marking (EPM) with radiopaque metal clips to localize is described. EPM guided superselective active transarterial embolization (A-TAE) when active vascular blush was seen. When no active contrast extravasation was seen, EPM also guided prophylactic superselective transarterial embolization (P-TAE).

RESULTS

From May 2004 to December 2021, there were 36 patients with massive LGB from diverticular disease encompassing 44 separate bleeding episodes. Spontaneous haemostasis was observed in 18.2% (8/44). The overall success rate in non-operative management was 83.3% (30/36) patients. Three patients proceeded for emergency surgery. Of the 36 patients, six patients had documented EPM followed by TAE due to recurrent bleed in the same episode. A-TAE was performed in two patients. P-TAE was performed in the four patients without active contrast extravasation. Initial haemostasis was successful in five out of six patients. One patient failed embolization and proceeded to emergency surgery. Three months later, one patient encountered late rebleeding and was scheduled for elective colectomy. None of the six developed intestinal infarction from embolization. The 30-day mortality was 0%.

CONCLUSION

A consistent approach to LGB and defined protocol of endoscopic haemostasis, with routine EPM and embolization, has the potential to mitigate the morbidity and mortality in this group of vulnerable patients.

Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Hospital-Acquired Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Single Centre Retrospective Cohort Study

Background Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is common in inpatient and outpatient settings; however, there are limited studies on the clinical characteristics and patient outcomes of those with hospital-acquired LGIB. Methods We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients with hospital-acquired LGIB who underwent colonoscopy during hospitalization between January 2017 and December 2021. We described the clinical characteristics, etiology, and clinical outcomes of patients stratified as those undergoing colonoscopy within 24 hours from haematochezia onset (early colonoscopy group) or after 24 hours from onset (late colonoscopy group). We used multivariable logistic regression to identify factors associated with endoscopic intervention in the early and late colonoscopy groups. Results Of the 272 patients included, the median age was 79 years (interquartile range: 72-85 years), 153 (56%) were bedridden, and 172 (63%) had hypoalbuminemia. The most frequent etiology was rectal ulcer (101 cases, 37%), whereas 7 (2.6%) had diverticular bleeding. The endoscopic intervention was performed on 16.7% and 7.9% of early and late colonoscopy patients. There were more patients with both non-severe and severe rebleeding in the early colonoscopy group (16% and 12%, respectively) than in the late colonoscopy group (11% and 6.5%, respectively). Colonoscopy-on-worktime was the only factor independently associated with a higher occurrence of endoscopic intervention. Conclusions In our sample, very old patients with hospital-acquired LGIB required endoscopy mainly due to rectal ulcers. Further studies will be necessary to investigate the differences between community-acquired LGIB and hospital-acquired LGIB and the optimal timing of colonoscopy for these patients.

How to manage lower gastrointestinal bleeding in 2022?

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB), originating mainly in the colon, rectum and anus, occurs most often in older patients (7th decade) with co-morbidity, half of whom have coagulation abnormalities due to anti-coagulant or anti-aggregant therapy. In three cases out of four, bleeding regresses spontaneously but can recur in up to one third of patients. The main causes are diverticular disease, vascular disorders (hemorrhoids, angiodysplasia) and colitis. Ten to 15% of patients present in hypovolemic shock. The main problem is to determine the precise location and etiology of bleeding. First-line steps include correction of hemodynamics, correction of coagulation disorders and transfusion, as necessary. Rectal digital examination allows differentiation between melena and hematochezia. In patients with severe LGIB, upper endoscopy can eliminate upper gastro-intestinal bleeding (UGIB). Computerized tomography (CT) angiography can pinpoint the source. If contrast material extravasates, the therapeutic strategy depends on the cause of bleeding and the general status of the patient: therapeutic colonoscopy, arterial embolization and/or surgery. In the absence of severity criteria (Oakland score≤10), ambulatory colonoscopy should be performed within 14 days. Discontinuation of anticoagulant and/or antiplatet therapy should be discussed case by case according to the original indications.

Construction of a Model for Predicting the Severity of Diverticular Bleeding in an Elderly Population

Objective To identify the risk factors for severe diverticular bleeding in an elderly population. Methods Using a comprehensive computerized hospital database, severe and non-severe diverticular bleeding cases were compared for 19 factors: the age, sex, body mass index, comorbid conditions (hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, and chronic renal failure, including those undergoing dialysis), history of diverticular bleeding, use of low-dose aspirin, use of antiplatelet agent besides aspirin, use of anticoagulant agent, use of prednisolone, use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, use of cyclooxygenase-2 selective inhibitors, changes in vital signs, hypoalbuminemia, bilateral diverticula, identification of bleeding lesion, and rebleeding. Severe bleeding was defined as the need for blood transfusion, emergency surgery, or vascular embolization. Patients A total of 258 patients were admitted for lower gastrointestinal bleeding between August 2010 and July 2020, among whom 120 patients over 65 years old diagnosed with diverticular bleeding were included in this study. Results Fifty-one patients (43%) had severe diverticular bleeding. Independent risk factors for severe diverticular bleeding were as follows: change in vital signs [odds ratio (OR), 5.23; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.9-14.4; p=0.0014], hypoalbuminemia (OR, 12.3; 95% CI, 1.97-77.3; p=0.0073), bilateral diverticula (OR, 3.47; 95% CI, 1.33-9.02; p=0.011), and rebleeding (OR, 5.92; 95% CI, 2.21-15.8; p<0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.79 after cross validation. Conclusion Severe diverticular bleeding in elderly population may be predicted by changes in their vital signs, hypoalbuminemia, bilateral diverticula, and rebleeding.

Causes of gastrointestinal bleeding in oral anticoagulant users compared to non-users in a population-based study

BACKGROUND/AIMS

Causes of gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) in patients on oral anticoagulants (OACs) are not well established. The aims of the study were to compare the causes of GIB in patients on OACs and those not on OAC therapy.

METHODS

A nationwide study of all GIB events in patients on OACs in Iceland from 2014-2019 was conducted. Bleeding events were obtained through ICD-10 codes and review of endoscopy databases, confirmed by review of medical records. For comparison, patients not on OACs from previous Icelandic population-based studies were used.

RESULTS

Among 752 GIB events in 12,005 patients on OACs, 273 (1.9%) had verified upper and 391 (2.7%) had verified lower GIB. For lower GIB, multivariate analysis showed that OAC users were more likely to have colonic polyps (OR 6.6, 95% CI: 2.4 - 17.8, p < .001) or colorectal cancer (OR 3.7, 95% CI: 2.0 - 7.0, p < .001) but less likely to have ischemic colitis (OR 0.11, 95% CI: 0.04 - 0.26, p < .001). For upper GIB, bleeding from mucosal erosions (OR 4.0 95% CI: 2.5 - 7.9, p < .001) and angiodysplasia (OR 3.6, 95%CI: 1.5 - 8.6, p = .003) were more common in OAC users.

CONCLUSIONS

A high proportion of GIB caused by colonic polyps and colorectal cancer among OAC patients indicates that OACs treatment may facilitate cancer diagnosis. The low proportion of ischemic colitis among those on OACs suggests that OACs provide a protective effect against ischemic colitis. OACs seem to increase the bleeding from angiodysplasia and mucosal erosive disease.

Identification of diverticular bleeding needs early colonoscopy rather than preparation

Background and study aims  When patients present with acute colonic diverticulum bleeding (CDB), a colonoscopy is performed to identify stigmata of recent hemorrhage (SRH), but valuable time can be lost in bowel preparation. This study retrospectively examined groups of patients who either had a standard pre-colonoscopy regimen or no preparation. Patients and methods  This study compared data from 433 patients who either followed a lengthy regimen of bowel preparation (prepared group, 266 patients) or had no preparation (unprepared group, 60 patients). We compared the association between time (hours) between admission before starting a colonoscopy (TMS) and identification of SRH using a chi-square test. Results  In 48 of 60 cases (80.0 %) in the unprepared group, a total colonoscopy was performed and the time to identify SRH was decreased. The respective rates of SRH identification in the unprepared and prepared groups were 55.2 % (16/29) vs. 46.7 % (7/15) if the TMS was < 3 hours; 47.1 % (8/7) vs. 36.8 % (35/95) in 3 to 12 hours; 0 % (0/3) vs. 22.0% (13/59) in 12 to 18 hours; and 21.8 % (3/11) vs. 20.6% (42/204) in > 18 hours. There were no significant differences between the two groups. However, the SRH identification rates before and after 12 hours were 42.3 % (66/156) and 20.9 % (58/277) ( P  < 0.001). Conclusions  Our data suggest that the bowel preparation method before colonoscopy is an independent variable predicting success in identifying SRH among patients with CDB. Decreasing the time before colonoscopy to no more than 12 hours after admission played an important role in identifying SRH.

Updates in the understanding and management of diverticular disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Diverticulosis leads to significant morbidity and mortality and is increasing in prevalence worldwide. In this paper, we review the clinical features, diagnosis, and management of diverticular disorders, followed by a discussion of recent updates and changes in the clinical approach to diverticular disease.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent literature suggests that antibiotics are likely not necessary for low-risk patients with acute uncomplicated diverticulitis, and not all patients with recurrent diverticulitis require colectomy. Dietary restrictions do not prevent recurrent diverticulitis. Visceral hypersensitivity is increasingly being recognized as a cause of persistent abdominal pain after acute diverticulitis and should be considered along with chronic smoldering diverticulitis, segmental colitis associated with diverticula, and symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease.

SUMMARY

Clinicians should be aware that traditionally held assumptions regarding the prevention and management of diverticular disorders have recently been called into question and should adjust their clinical practice accordingly.

Acute Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding in an Emergency Department and Performance of the SHA2PE Score: A Retrospective Observational Study

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is a frequent cause of emergency department (ED) consultation, leading to investigations but rarely to urgent therapeutic interventions. The SHA₂PE score aims to predict the risk of hospital-based intervention, but has never been externally validated. The aim of our single-center retrospective study was to describe patients consulting our ED for LGIB and to test the validity of the SHA₂PE score. We included 251 adult patients who consulted in 2017 for hematochezia of <24 h duration; 53% were male, and the median age was 54 years. The most frequent cause of LGIB was unknown (38%), followed by diverticular disease and hemorrhoids (14%); 20% had an intervention. Compared with the no-intervention group, the intervention group was 26.5 years older, had more frequent bleeding in the ED (47% vs. 8%) and more frequent hypotension (8.2% vs. 1.1%), more often received antiplatelet drugs (43% vs. 18%) and anticoagulation therapy (28% vs. 9.5%), more often had a hemoglobin level of <10.5 g/dl (49% vs. 6.2%) on admission, and had greater in-hospital mortality (8.2% vs. 0.5%) (all p < 0.05). The interventions included transfusion (65%), endoscopic hemostasis (47%), embolization (8.2%), and surgery (4%). The SHA₂PE score predicted an intervention with sensitivity of 71% (95% confidence interval: 66–83%), specificity of 81% (74–86%), and positive and negative predictive values of 53% (40–65%) and 90% (84–95%), respectively. SHA₂PE performance was inferior to that in the original study, with a 1 in 10 chance of erroneously discharging a patient for outpatient intervention. Larger prospective validation studies are needed before the SHA₂PE score can be recommended to guide LGIB patient management in the ED.

Efficacy of urgent colonoscopy for colonic diverticular bleeding: A propensity score-matched analysis using a nationwide database in Japan

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Although colonic diverticular bleeding (CDB) is considered to have good prognosis with conservative therapy, some cases are severe. The efficacy of urgent colonoscopy for CDB and clinical factors affecting CDB prognosis are unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of urgent colonoscopy for CDB and identify risk factors for unfavorable events, including in-hospital death during admission, owing to CDB.

METHODS

We collected CDB patients' data using the Diagnosis Procedure Combination database system. We divided eligible patients into urgent and elective colonoscopy groups using propensity score matching and compared endoscopic hemostasis and in-hospital death rates and length of hospital stay. We also conducted logistic regression analysis to identify clinical factors affecting CBD clinical events, including in-hospital death, a relatively rare CDB complication.

RESULTS

Urgent colonoscopy reduced the in-hospital death rate (0.35% vs 0.58%, P = 0.033) and increased the endoscopic hemostasis rate (3.0% vs 1.7%, P < 0.0001) compared with elective colonoscopy. Length of hospitalization was shorter in the urgent than in the elective colonoscopy group (8 vs 9 days, P < 0.0001). Multivariate analysis also revealed that urgent colonoscopy reduced in-hospital death (odds ratio = 0.67, 95% confidence interval: 0.46-0.97, P = 0.036) and increased endoscopic hemostasis (odds ratio = 1.84, 95% confidence interval: 1.53-2.22, P <  0.0001).

CONCLUSION

Urgent colonoscopy for CDB may facilitate identification of the bleeding site and reduce in-hospital death. The necessity and appropriate timing of urgent colonoscopy should be considered based on patients' condition.

Feasibility and safety of colonoscopy performed by nonexperts for acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding: post hoc analysis

Background and study aims  It remains unclear whether the experience of endoscopists affects clinical outcomes for acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (ALGIB). We aimed to determine the feasibility and safety of colonoscopies performed by nonexperts using secondary data from a randomized controlled trial for ALGIB. Patients and methods  We analyzed clinical outcomes in 159 patients with ALGIB who underwent colonoscopies performed by two groups of endoscopists: experts and nonexperts. We compared endoscopy outcomes, including identification of stigmata of recent hemorrhage (SRH), successful endoscopic treatment, adverse events (AEs), and clinical outcomes between the two groups, including 30-day rebleeding, transfusion, length of stay, thrombotic events, and 30-day mortality. Results  Expert endoscopists alone performed colonoscopies in 96 patients, and nonexperts performed colonoscopies in 63 patients. The use of antiplatelets and warfarin was significantly higher in the expert group. The SRH identification rate (24.0 and 17.5 %), successful endoscopic treatment rate (95.0 and 100 %), rate of AEs during colonoscopy (0 and 0 %), transfusion rate (6.3 and 4.8 %), length of stay (8.0 and 6.4 days), rate of thrombotic events (0 and 1.8 %), and mortality (0 and 0 %) were not different between the expert and nonexpert groups. Rebleeding within 30 days occurred more often in the expert group than in the nonexpert group (14.3 vs. 5.4 % P  = 0.0914). Conclusions  The performance of colonoscopies for ALGIB by nonexperts did not result in worse clinical outcomes, suggesting that its use could be feasible for nonexperts for diagnosis and treatment of ALGIB.

Severe Acute Colonic Diverticular Bleeding: The Efficacy of Rapid Bowel Preparation With 1 L Polyethylene Glycol Ascorbate Solution and Direct Endoscopic Hemoclipping for Successful Hemostasis

Colonic diverticular bleeding is an established cause of painless acute lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Colonoscopy, performed within 24 hours of presentation, is the usual initial diagnostic procedure in such patients. In order to improve the diagnostic and therapeutic yield of urgent colonoscopy, adequate colon cleansing is required in patients with signs and symptoms of ongoing bleeding. We hereby delineate the importance of rapid bowel preparation with a very-low-volume novel 1 L polyethylene glycol ascorbate solution in the setting of acute severe colonic diverticular bleeding. The 1-L regimen may demonstrate similar efficacy to that of traditional higher volume preparations and it can substantially reduce the time for bowel preparation. Therefore, it can be considered for bowel purge when colonoscopy has to be rapidly planned in critical patients. This article further illustrates that the endoscopic technique using epinephrine followed by direct hemoclipping may be added to the armamentarium for acute colonic diverticular hemorrhage as the first treatment, especially in elderly patients with multiple comorbid conditions. While ample evidence surrounding the efficacy of the clipping method persists in the literature, rapid bowel preparation with 1 L polyethylene glycol ascorbate solution's imperativeness to achieve hemostasis with direct hemoclipping remains elusive.

Effectiveness of risk scoring systems in predicting endoscopic treatment in colonic diverticular bleeding

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

The identification of stigmata of recent hemorrhage (SRH) in colonic diverticular bleeding (CDB) enables an endoscopic treatment and can improve the clinical outcome. However, SRH identification rate remains low. This study aims to investigate whether NOBLADS and Strate scoring systems are useful for predicting SRH identification rate of CDB pre-procedurally via colonoscopy.

METHODS

In this single-center retrospective observational study, 302 patients who experienced their first episode of CDB from April 2008 to March 2018 were included. Patients were classified into SRH-positive and SRH-negative groups. The primary outcome was SRH identification rate. The secondary outcomes were active bleeding in SRH and early rebleeding rates. The usefulness of the NOBLADS and Strate scores as predicted values of SRH identification was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve.

RESULTS

There were 126 and 176 patients in the SRH-positive and SRH-negative groups, respectively. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for SRH identification using the NOBLADS score was 0.74 (95% confidence interval, 0.69-0.80) and that using the Strate score was 0.74 (95% confidence interval, 0.68-0.79). Active bleeding and early rebleeding rates increased according to each score. By setting the cut-off of the NOBLADS score to four points, treatment was possible in 70.2% (66/94) patients. Addition of extravasation at computed tomography to a NOBLADS score of ≧ 4 points allowed treatment of all patients (24/24).

CONCLUSIONS

Severity scoring in acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding was effective for predicting SRH identification in CDB. We suggest that combination of these scorings and CT findings could offer a new therapeutic strategy.

Acute hemorrhagic rectal ulcer: Experience in 11 patients at an urban acute care center in the USA: A case series

INTRODUCTION

Acute hemorrhagic rectal ulcer (AHRU) is a rare entity which has most frequently been described in Japan and Taiwan literature. This study characterizes 11 AHRUs identified and managed at an urban acute care hospital in the United States of America (USA).

METHODS

A total of 2253 inpatients underwent colonoscopy. In 1172 patients (52%), colonoscopy was performed for evaluation of lower gastrointestinal (LGI) bleeding. Eleven (0.9%) of the 1172 patients with LGI bleeding had AHRU.

RESULTS

AHRU is characterized by a sudden onset of painless and massive lower rectal bleeding in elderly, bedridden patients (pts) with major underlying diseases. The endoscopic findings were classified into 4 types. All 11 ulcers were located in the distal rectum within 10 cm of the dentate line. All 11 patients required blood transfusion (mean = 3.7 units; range 2-9 units). Seven patients responded to blood, plasma, and platelet transfusions. The other 4 patients required endoscopic hemostasis.Three patients died within a month of colonoscopy from comorbidities. None had bleeding as a cause of death. Eight surviving patients did not have recurrent bleeding.

CONCLUSION

AHRU does exist in the USA and should be considered as an important cause of acute lower GI bleeding in elderly, critically ill, and bedridden patients. AHRU should be recognized and managed correctly.

Short-Term Results of Sclerotherapy with 3% Polidocanol Foam for Symptomatic Second- and Third-Degree Hemorrhoidal Disease

Background: Hemorrhoidal disease (HD) is defined as the symptomatic enlargement and/or distal displacement of anal cushions and is one of the most common proctological diseases. Sclerotherapy (ST) with 3% polidocanol foam induces an inflammatory reaction with sclerosis of the submucosal tissue and consequent suspension of the hemorrhoidal tissue. The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term effectiveness and safety of ST with 3% polidocanol foam for the treatment of symptomatic second- and third-degree HD.Methods: A total of 66 patients with symptomatic second- and third-degree HD underwent a single ST session between March 2017 and July 2018. A visual analog scale score was used to assess post-operative pain and patient satisfaction. The symptoms severity and anal continence were investigated through the Hemorrhoid Severity Score (HSS) and Vaizey score, respectively, at baseline, at 4 weeks and after 1 year.Results: Fifty-seven out of 66 patients were male (86.3%), and the mean age was 52 (29-75; SD ± 12) years. The mean operative time was 4.5 (2-6; SD ± 1.23) minutes. No intraoperative complications and no drug-related side effects occurred. The overall success rate was 78.8% (52/66 patients) after a single ST session and 86% after two ST sessions (57/66 patients). The mean treatment effect, obtained comparing preoperative and 12 months symptom scores in each patient, showed a median change of 8 (p < 0.001). All patients resumed their normal daily activities the day after the procedures.Conclusions: ST with 3% polidocanol foam is a safe, cost-effective and repeatable conservative treatment.

Colonoscopic management of diverticular disease

Diverticula are the most common incidental finding during routine colonoscopy, and their prevalence increases with patient age. The term “diverticular disease” encompasses the range of clinical manifestations and complications that can occur with colonic diverticula, including diverticular bleeding, diverticulitis-associated strictures, and acute diverticulitis. Colonoscopy is a vital tool in the diagnosis and management of diverticular disease and can be useful in a variety of regards. In this editorial, we concisely delineate the current approach to and practices in colonoscopic management of diverticular disease. In particular, we discuss treatment options for diverticular bleeding, propose consideration of colonic stenting as a bridge to surgery in patients with diverticulitis-associated strictures, and the need for diagnostic colonoscopy following an episode of acute diverticulitis in order to rule out underlying conditions such as colonic malignancy or inflammatory bowel disease. In addition, we offer practical tips for performing safe and successful colonoscopy in patients with dense diverticulosis coli.

Preoperative bleeding requiring transfusion: An under-reported indication for hemorrhoidectomy

BACKGROUND

Though hemorrhoids commonly cause minor gastrointestinal bleeding, major hemorrhage requiring blood transfusion is believed to be rare. We sought to identify the prevalence and risk factors for preoperative transfusion in surgical hemorrhoidectomy patients.

METHODS

Patients undergoing surgical hemorrhoidectomy at a single institution (2012-2017) were evaluated for preoperative bleeding requiring transfusion. Bivariate analysis compared patients requiring transfusion to those who did not, and multivariable analysis evaluated for independent risk factors for transfusion.

RESULTS

Out of 520 patients, 7.3% experienced hemorrhoidal bleeding requiring transfusion, and 80.6% reported bleeding. On multivariable analysis, the use of either an anticoagulant or non-aspirin antiplatelet agent was associated with transfusion (OR 3.08, p = 0.03). Patients requiring transfusion had extensive preoperative workups, including colonoscopy (94.7%), flexible sigmoidoscopy (7.89%), upper endoscopy (50%) and capsule endoscopy (26.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

Bleeding requiring transfusion is an under-reported complication of hemorrhoids. Increased recognition could lead to expeditious surgical treatment and less costly diagnostic workup.

Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Patients With Cirrhosis-Etiology and Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is a common clinical problem, and may be more prevalent among patients with cirrhosis, especially in the setting of portal hypertension and coagulopathy. However, there is extremely little data available on the subject of LGIB in patients with cirrhosis. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to better understand the etiology and outcomes of cirrhotic patients hospitalized with LGIB.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analyzed 3,735 cirrhotic patients admitted to the Medical University of South Carolina between January 2011 and September 2018, and identified patients admitted with a primary diagnosis of hematochezia or bright red blood per rectum.

RESULTS

Thirty patients with cirrhosis and LGIB were included in the cohort. The mean age was 56 ± 13 years, with 30% women. The mean model of end stage liver disease score was 22, and Child-Pugh (CP) scores were C: 41%, B: 33% and A: 26%. The mean Charlson Comorbidity Index was 5.6. Twenty-four (80%) patients had a clinical decompensating event (hepatic encephalopathy, ascites, esophageal varices); the mean hepatic venous pressure gradient was 14.1 mm Hg (n = 8). In 33% of patients, LGIB was considered significant bleeding that necessitated blood transfusion. The most common cause of LGIB was hemorrhoids (11 patients, 37%), followed by portal hypertensive enteropathy or colopathy (7 patients, 23%). Hemoglobin levels on admission were lower in patients with CP B/C cirrhosis than in those with CP A (P < 0.001). The length of stay was 9 ± 10 days, and 5 patients died (mortality, 17%).

CONCLUSIONS

Despite being uncommon, LGIB in cirrhotic patients is associated with a high mortality rate.

Randomised Study Comparing the use of Propofol Versus Dexmedetomidine as a Sedative Agent for Patients Presenting for Lower Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

Objectives::

Dexmedetomidine, the alpha 2 agonist sedative and an analgesic agent may be beneficial in sedation for endoscopic intervention. Our aim was to compare the use of dexmedetomidine versus the traditional use of propofol as a sedative agent for colonoscopies.

Methods::

This study included 100 patients presenting for elective colonoscopy under sedation with random and equal allocation of patients into two groups; group P, in which patients received propofol in a loading dose of 1.5 mg/kg and maintenance dose of 0.5 mg/kg/hr, and group D, in which patients received dexmedetomidine at a loading dose of 1ug/kg and maintenance dose of 0.5 ug/kg/hr. In addition to the demographic data, time to recovery, time of discharge, and endoscopist rating were measured. Also, the hemodynamic parameters were recorded, and also the incidence of postoperative complications.

Results::

The basic patients' characteristics, time to recovery, and time of discharge were comparable between the two groups. Moreover, the endoscopist did not significantly report more convenient procedure with one group over the other. Also, there was no significant difference in hemodynamic parameters or in the incidence of complications between the two studied groups. However the use of dexmedetomidine decreased the incidence of hypoxemia.

Conclusion::

The use of dexmedetomidine seems to have a similar effect to the use of propofol as a sedative agent for lower GIT endoscopy with the positive effect of dexmedetomidine in decreasing the incidence of perioperative hypoxemia.

Acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding: A population-based five-year follow-up study

Background

Data on the natural history of acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (ALGIB) are lacking. We evaluated five-year bleeding risk and mortality in ALGIB patients and controls. Furthermore, we aimed to find predictors of rebleeding.

Methods

This was a population-based retrospective case-control study conducted at the National University Hospital of Iceland, and included every individual who underwent endoscopy in 2010-2011. ALGIB was defined as rectal bleeding leading to hospitalisation or occurring in a hospitalised patient. Controls were randomly selected from those who underwent endoscopy in the same time period but who did not have GIB, and were matched for sex and age. Patients were followed up five years after index bleeding. Rebleeding was defined as ALGIB >14 days after index bleeding.

Results

In total, 2294 patients underwent 2602 colonoscopies in 2010-2011. Of those, 319 (14%) had ALGIB. The mean age for cases and controls was 64 and 65 years (±19.3-20.7), respectively, and females accounted for 51-52% of the study population. For ALGIB patients, the five-year risk of a bleeding was 20% (95% confidence interval (CI) 15-24%) compared to 3% (95% CI 1-5%) in controls (log rank < 0.0001; co-morbidity-adjusted hazard ratio (HR) 6.9 (95% CI 3.4-14)). Only 37% of bleeders had the same cause of index bleeding and rebleeding. In ALGIB patients, age and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) were predictors of rebleeding, with odds ratios per 10 years of 1.3 (95% CI 1.1-1.6) and 4.3 (95% CI 1.5-12), respectively. Bleeders did not have a higher risk of five-year mortality compared to controls (HR = 1.2; 95% CI 0.87-1.6).

Conclusions

One fifth of ALGIB patients had rebleeding during follow-up. Age and IBD were independent predictors of rebleeding. ALGIB was not associated with lower five-year survival.

Lower GI Bleeding: An Update on Incidences and Causes

Bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract represents a significant source of morbidity and mortality. The colon represents the vast majority of the location of bleeding with only a much smaller incidence occurring in the small intestine. The major causes of lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) are from diverticulosis, vascular malformations, and cancer. We discuss the incidence and causes of LGIB.

Changes in Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding Presentation, Management, and Outcomes Over a 10-Year Span

BACKGROUND

There are only limited data available on changes in the etiology, management, and clinical outcomes in patients with lower gastrointestinal bleeding over the past decade.

STUDY

We compared 2 groups of consecutive patients hospitalized with lower gastrointestinal bleeding during 2 time periods: 2005 to 2007 (301 patients) and 2015 to 2017 (249 patients).

RESULTS

Compared with the 2005 to 2007 group, the mean Charlson comorbidity index in the 2015 to 2017 group was higher (5.0±2.6 vs. 6.0±3.0, P=0.028), whereas the use of computerized tomographic angiography and small bowel capsule endoscopy was more common (12.9% vs. 58.1%, P<0.001, and 28.8% vs. 69.0%, P=0.031, respectively). In 2005 to 2007, ischemic colitis (12.0%) was the most common confirmed etiology of bleeding and diverticular bleeding the second most common (8.6%), whereas in 2015 to 2017, diverticular bleeding was the most common etiology (10.4%), followed by angiodysplasia (8.4%). Small bowel bleeding sources were confirmed more often in the 2015 to 2017 group (P=0.017). Endoscopic treatment was attempted in 16.6% of patients in 2005 to 2007 versus 25.3% in 2015 to 2017 (P=0.015). Higher rebleeding rates, longer hospitalization durations (4.6±4.3 vs. 5.5±3.4 d, P=0.019), and a higher proportion of patients needing a transfusion (62.0% vs. 78.4%, P=0.016) were noted in 2015 to 2017.

CONCLUSIONS

Over a 10-year span, there were several notable changes: (1) more comorbidities in patients hospitalized for lower gastrointestinal bleeding; (2) marked increase in the use of computerized tomographic angiography and capsule endoscopy for diagnostic evaluation; and (3) longer hospitalization durations and greater need for blood transfusion, possibly reflecting the selection of sicker patients for in-patient management in 2015 to 2017.

Risk Factors for 30-day Hospital Readmission for Diverticular Hemorrhage

INTRODUCTION

The 2010 Affordable Care Act introduced the Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program to reduce health care utilization. Diverticular disease and its complications remain a leading cause of hospitalization among gastrointestinal disease. We sought to determine risk factors for 30-day hospital readmissions after hospitalization for diverticular bleeding.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We utilized the 2013 National Readmission Database sponsored by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality focusing on hospitalizations with the primary or secondary discharge diagnosis of diverticular hemorrhage or diverticulitis with hemorrhage. We excluded repeat readmissions, index hospitalizations during December and those resulting in death. Our primary outcome was readmission within 30 days of index hospital discharge. Secondary outcomes of interest included medical and procedural comorbid risk factors. The data were analyzed using logistic regression analysis.

RESULTS

In total, 29,090 index hospitalizations for diverticular hemorrhage were included. There were 3484 (12%) 30-day readmissions with recurrent diverticular hemorrhage diagnosed in 896 (3%).Index admissions with renal failure [odds ratio (OR), 1.31; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.19-1.43], congestive heart failure (OR, 1.30; 95% CI, 1.17-1.43), chronic pulmonary disease (OR, 1.19; 95% CI, 1.09-1.29), coronary artery disease (OR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.03-1.21), atrial fibrillation (OR, 1.12; 95% CI, 1.02-1.22) cirrhosis (OR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.29-2.93, performance of blood transfusion (OR, 1.23; 95% CI, 1.15-1.33), and abdominal surgery (OR, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.03-1.49) had increased risk of 30-day readmission.

CONCLUSIONS

The 30-day readmission rate for diverticular hemorrhage was 12% with multiple identified comorbidities increasing readmission risk.

Impact of Computed Tomography Evaluation Before Colonoscopy for the Management of Colonic Diverticular Hemorrhage

GOALS

The purpose of this study was to investigate and summarize our experience of a standardized strategy using computed tomography (CT) followed by colonoscopy for the assessment of colonic diverticular hemorrhage with focus on a comparison of CT and colonoscopy findings in patients with colonic diverticular hemorrhage.

BACKGROUND

Colonic diverticular hemorrhage is usually diagnosed by colonoscopy, but it is difficult to identify the responsible bleeding point among many diverticula.

STUDY

We retrospectively included 257 consecutive patients with colonic diverticular hemorrhage. All patients underwent a CT examination before colonoscopy. All-cause mortality and rebleeding-free rate after discharge were analyzed by Kaplan-Meier analysis and compared using the log-rank test.

RESULTS

In CT examinations, 184 patients (71.6%) had definite diverticular hemorrhage with 31.9% showing intraluminal high-density fluid on plain CT, 39.7% showing extravasation, and 31.1% showing arteriovenous increase of extravasation on enhanced CT. In colonoscopy, 130 patients (50.6%) showed endoscopic stigmata of bleeding with 12.1% showing active bleeding, 17.1% showing a nonbleeding visible vessel, and 21.4% showing an adherent clot. A comparison of the locations of bleeding in CT and colonoscopy showed that the agreement rate was 67.3%, and the disagreement rate was 0.8% when the lesion was identified by both modalities patients with definite diverticular hemorrhage identified by CT had a longer hospital stay, higher incidences of hemodynamic instability and rebleeding events than did patients with presumptive diverticular hemorrhage.

CONCLUSION

CT evaluation before colonoscopy can be a good option for managing patients with colonic diverticular hemorrhage.

Lower Endoscopic Diagnostic Yields Observed in Non-hematemesis Gastrointestinal Bleeding Patients

BACKGROUND

Location of bleeding can present a diagnostic challenge in patients without hematemesis more so than those with hematemesis.

AIM

To describe endoscopic diagnostic yields in both hematemesis and non-hematemesis gastrointestinal bleeding patient populations.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis on a cohort of 343 consecutively identified gastrointestinal bleeding patients admitted to a tertiary care center emergency department with hematemesis and non-hematemesis over a 12-month period. Data obtained included presenting symptoms, diagnostic lesions, procedure types with diagnostic yields, and hours to diagnosis.

RESULTS

The hematemesis group (n = 105) took on average 15.6 h to reach a diagnosis versus 30.0 h in the non-hematemesis group (n = 231), (p = 0.005). In the non-hematemesis group, the first procedure was diagnostic only 53% of the time versus 71% in the hematemesis group (p = 0.02). 25% of patients in the non-hematemesis group required multiple procedures versus 10% in the hematemesis group (p = 0.004). Diagnostic yield for a primary esophagogastroduodenoscopy was 71% for the hematemesis group versus 50% for the non-hematemesis group (p = 0.01). Primary colonoscopies were diagnostic in 54% of patients and 12.5% as a secondary procedure in the non-hematemesis group. A primary video capsule endoscopy yielded a diagnosis in 79% of non-hematemesis patients (n = 14) and had a 70% overall diagnostic rate (n = 33).

CONCLUSION

Non-hematemesis gastrointestinal bleeding patients undergo multiple non-diagnostic tests and have longer times to diagnosis and then compared those with hematemesis. The high yield of video capsule endoscopy in the non-hematemesis group suggests a role for this device in this context and warrants further investigation.

Imaging Workup of Acute and Occult Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding is defined as occurring distal to the ligament of Treitz and presents as hematochezia, melena, or with anemia and positive fecal occult blood test. Imaging plays a pivotal role in the localization and treatment of lower gastrointestinal bleeds. Imaging tests in the workup of acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding include computed tomography (CT) angiography, nuclear medicine scintigraphy, and conventional catheter angiography. Catheter angiography can also be used to deliver treatment. Imaging tests in the workup of occult lower gastrointestinal bleeding include CT enterography and nuclear medicine Meckel scan.

Management of Diverticular Hemorrhage: Catching That Culprit Diverticulum Red-Handed!

Background/Summary

Acute colonic diverticular hemorrhage (CDH) represents a significant challenge for gastroenterologists. There are some clinical problems in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of CDH. CDH is the most common cause of overt lower gastrointestinal bleeding in adults in Eastern and Western countries. Moreover, CDH imposes significant economic and clinical burdens on the health care system. Colonoscopy is recommended as a useful diagnostic tool for CDH after bowel preparation. Colonoscopy can be used to identify the culprit diverticulum and to provide endoscopic therapy. In most cases, however, the bleeding stops spontaneously. For this reason, it is still controversial whether urgent colonoscopy or elective colonoscopy is "preferable."

Key Messages

This review aims to highlight the various clinical problems (purge, timing of colonoscopy, CT angiography, and endoscopy) encountered in the attempt to identify and treat the culprit diverticulum red-handed.

Management of Diverticular Bleeding: Evaluation, Stabilization, Intervention, and Recurrence of Bleeding and Indications for Resection after Control of Bleeding

Diverticular bleeding is the most common cause of lower gastrointestinal bleeding with nearly 200,000 admissions in the United States annually. Less than 5% of patients with diverticulosis present with diverticular bleeding and present usually as painless, intermittent, and large volume of lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Management algorithm for patients presenting with diverticular bleeding includes resuscitation followed by diagnostic evaluation. Colonoscopy is the recommended first-line investigation and helps in identifying the stigmata of recent hemorrhage and endoscopic management of the bleeding. Radionuclide scanning is the most sensitive but least accurate test due to low spatial resolution. Angiography is helpful when patients are actively bleeding and therapeutic interventions are performed with angioembolization. Surgery for diverticular bleeding is necessary when associated with hemodynamic instability and after failed endoscopic or angiographic interventions. When the bleeding site is localized preoperatively, partial colectomy is sufficient, but subtotal colectomy is necessary when localization is not possible preoperatively.

Evaluation and management of lower gastrointestinal bleeding

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is a common cause of presentation to the emergency department and hospital admissions. The incidence of LGIB increases with age and the most common etiologies are diverticulosis, angiodysplasia, malignancy and anorectal diseases. Foremost modality for evaluation and treatment of LGIB is colonosopy. Other diagnostic tools such as nuclear scintigraphy, computed tomography, angiography and capsule endoscopy are also frequently used in the workup of LGIB. Choice of treatment modality depends on the hemodynamic status of the patient, rate of bleeding, expertise and available resources. We present a comprehensive review of the evaluation and management of LGIB.

Acute lower gastrointestinal haemorrhage: outcomes and risk factors for intervention in 949 emergency cases

PURPOSE

Outcomes of acute lower gastrointestinal haemorrhage (ALGIH) are mostly derived from studies performed in the sub-acute/elective rather than the emergency department (ED) setting. The aims of this study were to determine the incidence and outcomes of patients presenting to a tertiary hospital ED with ALGIH and to identify associated clinicopathological risk factors.

METHOD

A retrospective observational cohort study of consecutive patients presenting with ALGIH to a tertiary hospital ED was performed. Primary outcome measures included mortality and hospital (including high dependency [HDU]) admission. Secondary outcome measures included rates of (i) blood transfusion, (ii) radiological/endoscopic investigation(s) and (iii) therapeutic intervention.

RESULTS

ALGIH accounted for 949 (512 M, mean age 62.3 years) of 130,262 (0.73%) ED presentations, of which 285 patients (30.1%) were on anti-platelet/coagulant therapy. There were five deaths (0.5%). Hospital admission was required in 498 patients (52.5%), of which 19 (3.8%) required HDU monitoring. Hospital admission was twice as likely in males and four times more likely in patients >75 years old and those taking multiple anti-platelet/coagulant therapy (P < 0.05). Blood product transfusion was required in 172 patients (34.5%), specialist investigations in 230 (46.2%) and therapeutic intervention in 51 (10.2%) (surgery in 24 [4.8%]; endoscopic haemostasis in 20 [4.0%] and angiographic embolisation in 9 [1.8%] patients).

CONCLUSION

ALGIH accounts for 1% of all ED presentations, with half requiring hospital admission. Mortality and surgical intervention rates are low and although most patients can be managed supportively, access to interventional radiology/endoscopy is important.

The Drivers of Discretionary Utilization: Clinical History Versus Physician Supply

PURPOSE

Because the effect of physician supply on utilization remains controversial, literature based on non-Medicare populations is sparse, and a physician supply expansion is under way, the potential for physician-induced demand across diverse populations is important to understand. A substantial proportion of gastrointestinal endoscopies may be inappropriate. The authors analyzed the impact of physician supply, practice patterns, and clinical history on esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD, defined as discretionary) among patients hospitalized with lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB).

METHOD

Among 34,344 patients hospitalized for LGIB from 2004 to 2009, 43.1% and 21.3% had a colonoscopy or EGD, respectively, during the index hospitalization or within 6 months after. Linking to the Dartmouth Atlas via patients' hospital referral region, gastroenterologist density and hospital care intensity (HCI) index were ascertained. Adjusting for age, gender, comorbidities, and race/education indicators, the association of gastroenterologist density, HCI index, and history of upper gastrointestinal disease with EGD was estimated using logistic regression.

RESULTS

EGD was not associated with gastroenterologist density or HCI index, but was associated with a history of upper gastrointestinal disease (OR 2.30; 95% CI 2.17-2.43), peptic ulcer disease (OR 4.82; 95% CI 4.26-5.45), and liver disease (OR 1.34; 95% CI 1.18-1.54).

CONCLUSIONS

Among patients hospitalized with LGIB, large variation in gastroenterologist density did not predict EGD, but relevant clinical history did, with association strengths commensurate with risk for upper gastrointestinal bleeding. In the scenario studied, no evidence was found that specialty physician supply increases will result in more discretionary care within commercially insured populations.

Early Versus Delayed Colonoscopy in Hospitalized Patients With Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

Early colonoscopy is recommended for patients with severe lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB). There is limited data as to whether this is associated with improved outcomes.

METHODS

We performed a meta-analysis of studies comparing early (<24 h) versus delayed colonoscopy (>24 h). PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched for manuscripts using colonoscopy as a diagnostic/treatment modality for patients hospitalized with LGIB. Studies were included if data were available on outcomes comparing early and delayed colonoscopy. Articles were reviewed for time to colonoscopy, rebleeding, mortality, length of stay (LOS), surgery, interventions, localization of LGIB, and number of packed red blood cells. Pooled measures were reported using the Mantel-Haenszel method.

RESULTS

A total of 8491 studies were assessed of which 6 were included. There were 422 patients in the early arm and 479 in the delayed arm. There were no differences in age (64.2 vs. 65.7, P=0.85), admission hemoglobin (10.3 vs. 10.3 g/dL, P=0.96), LOS (5.21 vs. 6.09, P=0.52), and packed red blood cells transfusion (2.37 vs. 2.35, P=0.92) between the groups. In hospital mortality [odds ratio (OR), 1.64; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.51-5.32], rebleeding (OR, 1.38; 95% CI, 0.85-2.23) and need for surgery (OR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.42-1.89) were not different in delayed versus early colonoscopy. Early colonoscopy was associated with a higher detection of bleeding source (OR, 2.97; 95% CI, 2.11-4.19) and endoscopic intervention (OR, 3.99; 95% CI, 2.59-6.13).

CONCLUSIONS

Early colonoscopy is not associated with reduced rebleeding, LOS, or surgery but is associated with a higher rate of source localization and endoscopic intervention.

Colonic ischemia: usual and unusual presentations and their management

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To provide an update on the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management of colonic ischemia.

RECENT FINDINGS

Formerly regarded as a rare cause of lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage, colonic ischemia is now recognized to be the most common manifestation of intestinal vascular compromise. In contrast to ischemic events in the small intestine wherein thrombotic and embolic events predominate, colonic ischemia typically results from a global reduction in blood flow to the colon and no occlusive lesion(s) are evident. Several risk factors for colonic ischemia have been identified and, together with an appropriate clinical presentation and patient demographics, create a context in which the clinician should have a high level of suspicion for its presence. Imaging with computerized tomography, in particular, may be highly supportive of the diagnosis, which where appropriate can be confirmed by colonoscopy and colonic biopsy. For most patients, management is supportive and noninterventional, and the prognosis for recurrence and survival are excellent.

SUMMARY

Colonic ischemia is a common cause of lower abdominal pain and hemorrhage among the elderly typically occurring in the aftermath of an event which led to hypoperfusion of the colon. For most affected individuals the ischemia is reversible and clinical course benign.

Crystal-Associated Colitis with Ulceration Leading to Hematochezia and Abdominal Pain

Lower GI bleeding is a common cause for hospitalization in adults. Medication-associated mucosal injury is an important clinical entity that can result in significant morbidity and mortality. We present the case of a 45-year-old woman with a 3-month history of intermittent abdominal cramping and rectal bleeding. Her medical history was extensive and included end-stage renal disease and a remote history of endometrial carcinoma that was treated with radiation. Initial workup was concerning for ischemic and radiation colitis, however, histology was most consistent with acute inflammation and ulceration associated with crystal fragments. Sevelamer and cholestyramine are commonly used ion-exchange resins that have been associated with mucosal damage. Both medications were discontinued and her symptoms resolved. Our case highlights an underrecognized but important cause of hematochezia.

Safety and Risk of Superselective Transcatheter Arterial Embolization for Acute Lower Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage with N-Butyl Cyanoacrylate: Angiographic and Colonoscopic Evaluation

PURPOSE

To retrospectively evaluate the safety and risk of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) with N-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) for urgent acute arterial bleeding control in the lower gastrointestinal tract by angiography and colonoscopy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

NBCA TAE was performed in 16 patients (mean age, 63.7 y) with lower gastrointestinal bleeding (diverticular hemorrhage, tumor bleeding, and intestinal tuberculosis). Angiographic evaluation was performed by counting the vasa recta filled with casts of NBCA and ethiodized oil (Lipiodol) after TAE. Patients were classified as follows: group Ia, with a single vas rectum with embolization of 1 branch (n = 6); group Ib, with a single vas rectum with embolization of ≥ 2 branches (n = 8); group II, with embolization of multiple vasa recta (n = 2). All patients underwent colonoscopy within 1 month, and ischemic complications (ulcer, scar, mucosal swelling, fibrinopurulent debris, and necrosis) were evaluated.

RESULTS

The procedure was successful in all patients. No ischemic change was observed in any patients in group Ia and in two patients in group Ib. Ischemic changes were observed in six group Ib patients and both group II patients. Group Ib patients experienced ischemic complications that improved without treatment. One patient in group II underwent resection for intestinal perforation after embolization of three vasa recta. One patient in group II with sigmoid stricture with embolization of six vasa recta required prolonged hospitalization.

CONCLUSIONS

NBCA embolization of ≥ 3 vasa recta can induce ischemic bowel damage requiring treatment. NBCA TAE of one vas rectum with ≥ 2 branches could also induce ischemic complications. However, these were silent and self-limited.

Lower Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is a frequent reason for hospitalization especially in the elderly. Patients with LGIB are frequently admitted to the intensive care unit and may require transfusion of packed red blood cells and other blood products especially in the setting of coagulopathy. Colonoscopy is often performed to localize the source of bleeding and to provide therapeutic measures. LGIB may present as an acute life-threatening event or as a chronic insidious condition manifesting as iron deficiency anemia and positivity for fecal occult blood. This article discusses the presentation, diagnosis, and management of LGIB with a focus on conditions that present with acute blood loss.

Lower GI bleeding: a review of current management, controversies and advances

PURPOSE

Lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is defined as bleeding distal to the ligament of Treitz. In the UK, it represents approximately 3 % of all surgical referrals to the hospital. This review aims to provide review of the current evidence regarding the management of this condition.

METHODS

Literature was searched using Medline, Pubmed, and Cochrane for relevant evidence by two researchers. This was conducted in a manner that enabled a narrative review of the evidence covering the aetiology, clinical assessment and management options of continuously bleeding patients.

FINDINGS

The majority of patients with acute lower GI bleeding can be treated conservatively. In cases where ongoing bleeding occurs, colonoscopy is still the first line of investigation and treatment. Failure of endoscopy and persistent instability warrant angiography, possibly preceded by CT angiography and proceeding to superselective embolisation. Failure of embolisation warrants surgical intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

There are still many unanswered questions. In particular, the development of a more reliable predictive tool for mortality, rebleeding and requirement for surgery needs to be the ultimate priority. There are a small number of encouraging developments on combination therapy with regard to angiography, endoscopy and surgery. Additionally, the increasing use of haemostatic agents provides an additional tool for the management of bleeding endoscopically in difficult situations.

Endoscopic Evaluation of Upper and Lower Gastro-Intestinal Bleeding

INTRODUCTION

A myriad of pathologies lead to gastro-intestinal bleeding (GIB). The common clinical presentations are hematemesis, melena, and hematochezia. Endoscopy aids localization and treatment of these lesions.

AIMS

The aim was to study the differential diagnosis of GIB emphasizing the role of endoscopy in diagnosis and treatment of GIB.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A prospective study of patients with GIB referred to the Endoscopy unit of two health facilities in Port Harcourt Nigeria from February 2012 to August 2014. The variables studied included: Demographics, clinical presentation, risk score, endoscopic findings, therapeutic procedure, and outcome. Data were collated and analyzed using SPSS version 20 software.

RESULTS

A total of 159 upper and lower gastro-intestinal (GI) endoscopies were performed during the study period with 59 cases of GI bleeding. There were 50 males and 9 females with an age range of 13-86 years (mean age 52.4 ± 20.6 years). The primary presentations were hematochezia, hematemesis, and melena in 44 (75%), 9 (15%), and 6 (10%) cases, respectively. Hemorrhoids were the leading cause of lower GIB seen in 15 cases (41%). The majority of pathologies in upper GIB were seen in the stomach (39%): Gastritis and benign gastric ulcer. Injection sclerotherapy was successfully performed in the hemorrhoids and a case of gastric varices. The mortality recorded was 0%.

CONCLUSION

Endoscopy is vital in the diagnosis and treatment of GIB. Gastritis and Haemorrhoid are the most common causes of upper and lower GI bleeding respectively, in our environment.

Evaluation and management of hemorrhoids: Italian society of colorectal surgery (SICCR) consensus statement

Hemorrhoids are one of the most common medical and surgical diseases and the main reason for a visit to a coloproctologist. This consensus statement was drawn up by the Italian society of colorectal surgery in order to provide practice parameters for an accurate assessment of the disease and consequent appropriate treatment. The authors made a careful search in the main databases (MEDLINE, PubMed, Embase and Cochrane), and all results were classified on the basis of the grade of recommendation (A-C) of the American College of Chest Physicians.

Small Bowel Adenocarcinoma as the Cause of Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Celiac Disease: A Rare Malignancy in a Common Disease

Introduction. Celiac disease is associated with an increased risk of small bowel malignancies, particularly lymphoma. Its association with small bowel carcinoma is less known. Case Description. We report a case of an 89-year-old woman with celiac disease who experienced recurrent episodes of gastrointestinal bleeding and was ultimately found to have adenocarcinoma of the small intestine. Discussion and Evaluation. Diagnosis of small bowel adenocarcinoma is often delayed because of the need for specialized modalities, which are often deferred in the inpatient setting. Although resection is the modality of choice for small bowel tumors, a majority is either locally advanced or metastatic at diagnosis, and even localized cancers have worse prognosis than stage-matched colorectal tumors. The role of adjuvant chemotherapy is uncertain, but it is often offered extrapolating data from other gastrointestinal cancers. Small bowel carcinomas occurring in the context of celiac disease appear to be associated with higher rates of microsatellite instability than sporadic tumors, although other specific genomic abnormalities and mechanisms of carcinogenesis in celiac disease remain unknown. Conclusion. Recurrent episodes of gastrointestinal bleeding in a patient with celiac disease should prompt an early evaluation of the small bowel to assure timely diagnosis of carcinoma at an early curable stage.

Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis and Gastrointestinal Bleeding: What a Surgeon Should Know

This paper presents to the surgical community an unusual and often ignored cause of gastrointestinal bleeding. Hemophagocytic syndrome or hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare medical entity characterized by phagocytosis of red blood cells, leucocytes, platelets, and their precursors in the bone marrow by activated macrophages. When intestinal bleeding is present, the management is very challenging with extremely high mortality rates. Early diagnosis and treatment seem to be the most important factors for a successful outcome. We present two cases and review another 18 from the literature.