An annotated algorithmic approach to acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding

Tratamiento quirúrgico de la hemorragia digestiva alta por enfermedad de Dieulafoy

La enfermedad de Dieulafoy constituye menos del 2 % de las causas de hemorragia digestiva alta. Corresponde a la presencia de un vaso sanguíneo arterial de trayecto tortuoso, que protruye a través de un defecto mucoso localizado, generalmente, proximal en el estómago. Se presenta como una hematemesis masiva, a veces recurrente, con inestabilidad hemodinámica. La endoscopia es el método diagnóstico y terapéutico de elección. Si esta fracasa, está indicado practicar una angiografía selectiva que permita identificar el punto sangrante y producir un embolismo. En algunas ocasiones, ninguna de estas dos técnicas consigue detener la hemorragia, en cuyo caso está indicada una cirugía urgente. Se deben practicar resecciones gástricas limitadas (gastrectomías en cuña o tubulares) a la zona sangrante localizada mediante las pruebas anteriores; así, se evitan grandes gastrectomías que implican la práctica de anastomosis por el gran riesgo de dehiscencia que estas últimas cuando hay inestabilidad hemodinámica. Se presenta el caso de un paciente con hemorragia digestiva alta secundaria a enfermedad de Dieulafoy, que precisó intervención quirúrgica urgente por la imposibilidad de resolver el sangrado mediante endoscopia. Se describen el diagnóstico y el tratamiento de la enfermedad de Dieulafoy como causa de hemorragia digestiva alta en el adulto, y se presenta una revisión de la literatura científica.

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.

Multidetector-Row Computed Tomography and Colonoscopy for Detecting a Rectal Dieulafoy Lesion as a Source of Lower Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage

A Dieulafoy lesion of the rectum is a very rare entity that can cause massive lower gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage. Identifying the bleeding point is sometimes difficult because these lesions are very small. We herein describe an 82-year-old man with active hemorrhage due to a rectal Dieulafoy lesion. He was referred to our hospital because of persistent hematochezia from the morning of that day. He had a history of atrial fibrillation, chronic heart failure, diabetes mellitus, and hyperuricemia. Prompt multidetector-row computed tomography (MDCT) enabled us to detect active bleeding from the lower rectum. Subsequently, colonoscopy revealed an exposed vessel in the lower rectum without surrounding ulceration, and hemostasis was successfully achieved using a hemostatic forceps with soft coagulation. After hemostasis had been achieved, the patient recovered and was discharged without complications and rebleeding. He is doing well 6 months after discharge from the hospital. Sequential examination by MDCT and colonoscopy is considered an efficient treatment strategy for patients with active lower GI bleeding.

Evaluation of Superselective Transcatheter Arterial Embolization with n-Butyl Cyanoacrylate in Treating Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Retrospective Study on Seven Cases

Background. To investigate the safety and efficacy of superselective transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) with n-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) in treating lower gastrointestinal bleeding caused by angiodysplasia. Methods. A retrospective study was performed to evaluate the clinical data of the patients with lower gastrointestinal bleeding caused by angiodysplasia. The patients were treated with superselective TAE with NBCA between September 2013 and March 2015. Angiography was performed after the embolization. The clinical signs including melena, anemia, and blood transfusion treatment were evaluated. The complications including abdominal pain and intestinal ischemia necrosis were recorded. The patients were followed up to evaluate the efficacy in the long run. Results. Seven cases (2 males, 5 females; age of 69.55 ± 2.25) were evaluated in the study. The embolization was successfully performed in all cases. About 0.2-0.8 mL (mean 0.48 ± 0.19 mL) NCBA was used. Immediate angiography after the embolization operation showed that the abnormal symptoms disappeared. The patients were followed up for a range of 2-19 months and six patients did not reoccur. No serious complications, such as femoral artery puncture point anomaly, vascular injury, and intestinal necrosis perforation were observed. Conclusion. For the patients with refractory and repeated lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage due to angiodysplasia, superselective TAE with NBCA seem to be a safe and effective alternative therapy when endoscopy examination and treatment do not work.

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.

Transarterial embolization in acute colonic bleeding: review of 11 years of experience and long-term results

BACKGROUND

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding represents 20 % of all gastrointestinal bleedings. Interventional radiology has transformed the treatment of this pathology, but the long-term outcome after selective embolization has been poorly evaluated. The aim of this study is thus to evaluate the short-term and long-term outcomes after selective embolization for colonic bleeding.

METHODS

From November 1998 to December 2010, all acute colonic embolizations for hemorrhage were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed. The risk factors for post-embolization ischemia were also assessed.

RESULTS

Twenty-four patients underwent colonic embolization. There were 6 men and 18 women with a median age of 80 years (range, 42-94 years). The underlying etiologies included diverticular disease (41.9 %), post-polypectomy bleeding (16.7 %), malignancy (8.2 %), hemorrhoid (4.1 %), and angiodysplasia (4.1 %). In 23 patients, bleeding stopped (95.8 %) after selective embolization. One patient presented a recurrence of bleeding with hemorrhagic shock and required urgent hemorrhoidal ligature. Four patients required an emergent surgical procedure because of an ischemic event (16.7 %). One patient died of ileal ischemia (mortality, 4.1 %). The level of embolization and the length of hypoperfused colon after embolization were the only risk factors for emergent operation. Mean hospital stay was 18 days (range, 9-44 days). After a mean follow-up of 28.6 months (range, 4-108 months), no other ischemic events occurred.

CONCLUSION

In our series, selective transarterial embolization for acute colonic bleeding was clinically effective with a 21 % risk of bowel ischemia. The level of embolization and the length of the hypoperfused colon after embolization should be taken into consideration for emergent operation.

Portal hypertensive colopathy and haematochezia in cirrhotic patients: an endoscopic study

BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS

In patients with liver cirrhosis, portal hypertensive colopathy (PHC) and anorectal varices (ARVs) are thought to cause lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. In the present work, we studied the diagnostic yield of colonoscopy in cirrhotic patients and haematochezia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The current study was conducted on 77 consecutive cirrhotic patients who underwent colonoscopy at Mansoura Emergency Hospital, Egypt, between May 2007 and May 2011. Following rapid evaluation and adequate resuscitation, a thorough history was obtained with complete physical examination including digital rectal examination and routine laboratory investigations. Colonoscopic evaluation was performed for the included patients by recording endoscopic abnormalities and obtaining biopsies from lesions.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between the PHC-positive group when compared with the PHC-negative group regarding patients' age, sex, severity of haematochezia, positive family history and the history of intake of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Significant difference was noted regarding the Child-Pugh class (p<0.05), history of splenectomy (p<0.05), prior history of endoscopic sclerotherapy (EST) or endoscopic variceal ligation (EVL) (p<0.05), prior history of upper gut bleeding (p<0.05), the presence of gastric varices (GVs) (p<0.05), presence of portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG) (p<0.05), presence of haemorrhoids (p<0.05) and rectal varices (<0.05) and therapy with β-blockers (p<0.05). Regarding the laboratory parameters, the platelet count only was markedly reduced in the PHC-positive group (p<0.05). All the PHC-related sources of bleeding (7/32 cases (21.87%)) were successfully managed with argon plasma coagulation. Regarding the laboratory parameters, the platelet count only was markedly reduced in the PHC-positive group (p<0.05). All the PHC-related sources of bleeding (7/32 cases (21.87%)) were successfully managed with argon plasma coagulation.

CONCLUSION

Our data revealed that it is not only PHC which is involved in haematochezia in cirrhotic patients despite the significant association. Instead, a high prevalence of inflammatory lesions came on the top of the list. Complete colonoscopy is highly advocated to detect probable proximal neoplastic lesions.

Severe hemoperitoneum after patient self-induced fecal evacuation

An increasing incidence of rectal injuries following patient self-induced harmful acts, aimed to sexual or laxatives porpouses, is a fact reported in literature (El-Ashaal et al., 2008). We herein report a case of severe hemoperitoneum related to a middle and upper rectal third seromuscolar tear caused by a self-induced fecal evacuation by means of an arrow with a covered cork tip. An urgent intestinal diversion by means of a Hartmann's operation was performed. The clinical case is presented in relation to the literature debate, regarding the issue of primary repair or resection and anastomosis versus fecal diversion for penetrating rectal injuries (Fabian, 2002; Cleary et al., 2006; Office of the Surgeon General, 1943; Busic et al., 2002). In conclusion, the importance of avoiding an anastomotic breakdown in a patient undergoing a hemorrhagic shock is highlighted.

Factors that contribute to blood loss in patients with colonic angiodysplasia from a population-based study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Most studies of angiodysplasia are small and performed at a single center. We investigated the epidemiology and management of colonic angiodysplasia by using a national endoscopy database.

METHODS

Colonoscopy reports (n = 229,727; generated from January 2000 to December 2002) from patients with documented angiodysplasia (n = 4159) were retrieved from the Clinical Outcomes Research Initiative. Predictors of occult or overt blood loss and endoscopic treatment were identified by using multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS

Most patients with documented angiodysplasia were older than 60 years (73%) or had right-sided lesions (62%). There was evidence of blood loss in 56% of patients with angiodysplasia. Predictors of blood loss included inpatient status (odds ratio [OR], 8.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 5.42-14.10), 2-10 angiodysplasias (OR, 1.50; 95% CI, 1.29-1.75), more than 10 lesions (OR, 2.18; 95% CI, 1.69-2.80), black race (OR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.46-2.62), severe illness (OR, 1.97; 95% CI, 1.62-2.41), Hispanic ethnicity (OR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.32-2.22), and age older than 80 years (OR, 1.32; 95% CI, 1.06-1.63). Endoscopic therapy was given to 28% of patients with evidence of blood loss and in 68% with active bleeding. Endoscopic treatment increased among patients in a university practice setting (vs community setting, OR, 2.53; 95% CI, 1.96-3.27) and decreased in Northwest geographic locations (vs Southwest, OR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.43-0.84).

CONCLUSIONS

Predictors of blood loss in patients with colonic angiodysplasia include inpatient status, comorbidities, age, race/ethnicity, and lesion number. Endoscopic therapy for angiodysplasia varied according to practice setting and region.

Emergency surgery for jejunal diverticulosis: our experience and review of literature

BACKGROUND

Jejunal diverticulosis is a rare entity and is often asymptomatic. However, some of its complications may require acute surgical intervention. This study was performed to evaluate the presentation and outcome of patients who underwent urgent surgery for complicated jejunal diverticulosis.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all patients who underwent emergency surgery for complicated jejunal diverticulosis from November 2005 to December 2008 was performed.

RESULTS

Six cases of complicated jejunal diverticulosis required urgent surgery during the study period. Three patients presented with acute abdomen from perforated jejunal diverticulum. Preoperative computed tomographic (CT) scans were useful in localizing the source of sepsis. One patient died from the subsequent complications. The other three patients presented with massive lower gastrointestinal haemorrhage for which CT angiography was able to localize the source of haemorrhage in two of them. Small bowel resection was then performed and all three were discharged well eventually.

CONCLUSION

Though rare, jejunal diverticulosis can present with several life-threatening complications that mandates immediate surgery. While the surgical procedure may be technically simple, achieving the accurate preoperative diagnosis is often fraught with challenges. CT scan could prove invaluable in the management if the situation permits.

The role of colonoscopy and radiological procedures in the management of acute lower intestinal bleeding

There are multiple strategies for evaluating and treating lower intestinal bleeding (LIB). Colonoscopy has become the preferred initial test for most patients with LIB because of its diagnostic and therapeutic capabilities and its safety. However, few studies have directly compared colonoscopy with other techniques and there are controversies regarding the optimal timing of colonoscopy, the importance of colon preparation, the prevalence of stigmata of hemorrhage, and the efficacy of endoscopic hemostasis. Angiography, radionuclide scintigraphy, and multidetector computed tomography scanning are complementary modalities, but the requirement of active bleeding at the time of the examination limits their routine use. In addition, angiography can result in serious complications. This review summarizes the available evidence regarding colonoscopy and radiographic studies in the management of acute LIB.

Diagnosis and management of lower gastrointestinal bleeding

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) can present as an acute and life-threatening event or as chronic bleeding, which might manifest as iron-deficiency anemia, fecal occult blood or intermittent scant hematochezia. Bleeding from the small bowel has been shown to be a distinct entity, and LGIB is defined as bleeding from a colonic source. Acute bleeding from the colon is usually less dramatic than upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage and is self-limiting in most cases. Several factors might contribute to increased mortality, a severe course of bleeding and recurrent bleeding, including advanced age, comorbidity, intestinal ischemia, bleeding as a result of a separate process, and hemodynamic instability. Diverticula, angiodysplasias, neoplasms, colitis, ischemia, anorectal disorders and postpolypectomy bleeding are the most common causes of LGIB. Volume resuscitation should take place concurrently upon initial patient assessment. Colonoscopy is the diagnostic and therapeutic procedure of choice, for acute and chronic bleeding. Angiography is used if colonoscopy fails or cannot be performed. The use of radioisotope scans is reserved for cases of unexplained intermittent bleeding, when other methods have failed to detect the source. Embolization or modern endoscopy techniques, such as injection therapy, thermocoagulation and mechanical devices, effectively promote hemostasis. Surgery is the final approach for severe bleeding.

Emergency subtotal colectomy for lower gastrointestinal haemorrhage: over-utilised or under-estimated?

INTRODUCTION

A minority of patients with unlocalised massive lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) will require treatment with emergency subtotal colectomy (STC).

METHODS

To determine the outcome of STC in this high-risk group, we retrospectively reviewed the histopathology reports and case records of all subtotal colectomies performed for LGIB over a 8-year period.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight patients (mean age: 71 years; male to female ratio, 1 : 1) underwent emergency surgery for unlocalised LGIB, 45% of which were massive on admission, and unresponsive to resuscitation. The remainder had persistent or recurrent bleeding during the index hospitalisation. The hospitalisation for colectomy represented the first for LGIB for 56% of the study group, while 38% were on at least their third such admission. All but three patients underwent preoperative rigid proctosigmoidoscopy. Fifty-five of the 58 patients were treated with STC and primary ileorectal anastomosis. The major causes of bleeding were diverticular disease only (68%), angiodysplasia only (12%) and both diseases (12%). Overall mortality was 17%, with the main contributor being sepsis resulting from anastomotic leak. Non-fatal complications occurred in 20%, resulting in a mean postoperative length of stay of 13 days. All patients were doing well on their first follow-up visit with a mean number of four stools per day after 1 month.

CONCLUSION

While emergency STC is an effective and definitive method of treating unlocalised massive LGIB, its associated morbidity and mortality may limit its usefulness.

Superselective embolization for lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage: an institutional review over 7 years

INTRODUCTION

Superselective embolization of visceral arterial branches has become integral in the management of acute lower gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage. The present study aimed to evaluate the success of superselective embolization as a primary therapeutic modality in the control of lower GI hemorrhage and to identify factors associated with rebleeding and surgical intervention after the procedure.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of all cases of superselective embolization for acute lower GI bleeding during a 7-year period (December 2000-October 2007) in a single 1,300-bed hospital in Singapore. Hemostasis was achieved with microcoils, polyvinyl alcohol particles, gelfoam, or by selective vasopressin infusion. Various clinical and hematologic factors were analyzed against rebleeding and surgical intervention after the procedure.

RESULTS

A total of 265 patients underwent mesenteric angiography for GI hemorrhage. Superselective embolization of visceral vessels for lower GI hemorrhage was performed in 32 patients (12%) whose median age was 66 years (range: 34-82 years). The group was of similar gender distribution, and the median follow-up was 8 months (range: 1-32 months). Location was the small bowel in 19% and the colon in 81%. The underlying etiologies included diverticular disease (59%), angiodysplasia (19%), ulcers (19%), and malignancy (3%). In 31 patients (97%) technical success was achieved, with immediate cessation of hemorrhage in every case. Clinical success was achieved in 20 patients (63%), all of whom were discharged well with no further intervention. Seven patients rebled, and 9 underwent surgery: 1 for incomplete hemostasis, 4 for rebleeding, 1 for infarcted bowel postembolization, and 3 on the basis of the surgeon's decision. There were 2 anastomotic leaks; 1 after surgery for postembolization ischemia and 1 after surgery for rebleeding. Overall mortality in this series was 9%. Rebleeding was more likely to occur if the site of bleeding was located in the small bowel compared to the colon (OR: 8.33, 95% CI 1.03-66.67). It was also more likely in patients with a hematocrit level </=20.0% (OR: 7.52, 95% CI: 1.14-50.00) and a platelets level </=140 x 10(9)/l (OR: 9.35, 95% CI: 1.36-62.5) just before the procedure. Surgical resection was also more likely in patients with a hematocrit level </=20.0% just before embolization (OR: 12.66, 95% CI: 1.96-83.33), and it appeared to be more likely if the underlying cause was diverticular disease (OR 8.70, 95% CI: 0.93-83.33).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of superselective mesenteric embolization for the treatment of lower GI bleeding is highly successful and relatively safe-97% technical success and 3% postembolization ischemia in our series. In 63% of cases it is definitive without any further intervention. Postembolization ischemia and surgery may be associated with a higher risk of anastomotic leak. Greater vigilance must be adopted in treating patients who have active hemorrhage from the small bowel and in those with a hematocrit </=20.0%.

Massive bleeding from a rectal dieulafoy lesion: combined multidetector-row CT diagnosis and endoscopic therapy

Dieulafoy lesion is an uncommon cause of acute gastrointestinal bleeding. The diagnosis is usually carried out endoscopically. We report a 77-year-old woman with rectal Dieulafoy lesion. A recent endoscopic examination missed the lesion because it was small and the bleeding was intermittent. In our case, prompt colonoscopic therapy was allowed after locating the bleeder by multidetector-row computed tomography. On the basis of the success of this procedure, we suggest that an emergent multidetector-row computed tomography could have a role in the management of patients with massive lower gastrointestinal bleeding.

Videoanoscopy: useful technique in the evaluation of hemorrhoids

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Rigid proctoscopy, the gold standard for detecting hemorrhoids, has become a neglected procedure in the era of flexible endoscopy. Evaluation of hemorrhoids is often done with the retroflexed fiberoptic colonoscope. The aim of this study was to evaluate the technique of videoanoscopy in comparison with retroflexion of colonoscope in the rectum to detect hemorrhoids and to correlate objective findings of hemorrhoids and their relation to bleeding.

METHODS

In total, 544 patients were screened and 358 patients were evaluated by the technique of videoanoscopy and retroflexion of colonoscope in the rectum. The video images of both the procedures were independently analyzed by two observers for the presence or absence of hemorrhoids. The videoanoscopy images were also analyzed for number of columns of hemorrhoids, size and presence of red-color sign.

RESULTS

Videoanoscopy detected hemorrhoids in a significantly higher number of subjects when compared with retroflexion of colonoscope in the rectum by both observers (P < 0.05). The average kappa value was 0.637 and 0.779 for retroflexed colonoscopy and videoanoscopy, respectively. Red-color sign was present in 80.5% of patients with bleeding compared with only 30.3% in the non-bleeding group. The majority (71%) of patients in the bleeding group had larger hemorrhoids. Red-color sign and size of hemorrhoidal columns correlated with bleeding (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Videoanoscopy is a simple technique with increased sensitivity to detect hemorrhoids compared with intrarectal retroflexion of colonoscope and yields valuable objective information about the presence and condition of hemorrhoids. It should be performed as an extension of standard colonoscopy.

Management of lower gastrointestinal tract bleeding

Acute bleeding from the colon and rectum is less frequent and less dramatic than haemorrhage from the upper gastrointestinal tract. In most cases, bleeding from the colon and rectum is self-limiting and requires no specific therapy. Diverticula and angiectasias are the most frequent sources of bleeding. Malignancy, colitis (inflammatory bowel disease, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and infectious colitis), ischaemia, anorectal disorders, postpolypectomy bleeding, and HIV-related problems are less frequent causes. The recurrence rate, especially in diverticular bleeding, is high. Resuscitation and haemodynamic stabilisation of the patient is the first step in the management of colonic bleeding. Urgent colonoscopy is the method of choice for diagnosis and therapy. By analogy with peptic ulcer bleeding, risk stratification using stigmata of haemorrhage is gaining more importance. Modern endoscopic techniques such as injection therapy, thermocoagulation and mechanical devices seem to be effective in achieving haemostasis and avoiding precarious surgery. Angiography and nuclear scintigraphy are reserved for those patients in whom colonoscopy is not possible or has repeatedly failed to localise the bleeding site.

[Lower gastrointestinal bleeding: the great unknown]

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding represents one-fourth of all gastrointestinal hemorrhages. The bleeding usually originates in the colon while less than 10% of cases originate in the small bowel. Colonoscopy is considered the initial procedure of choice due to its diagnostic efficacy, safety, and therapeutic potential. Mesenteric arteriography can be an alternative in patients with massive hemorrhage. Helical computed tomography of the abdomen with endovenous contrast can be useful but has not been directly compared with arteriography. When the results of gastroscopy and colonoscopy are negative, small bowel bleeding is suspected. Capsule endoscopy allows non-invasive examination of the entire small bowel. The diagnostic efficacy of this procedure is clearly superior to that of other conventional examinations and, compared with intraoperative endoscopy, capsule endoscopy has a sensitivity of 95% and a specificity of 75%. Double balloon enteroscopy is a new modality that also allows complete examination of the small bowel with the additional advantage of its therapeutic potential. Definitive diagnosis of the hemorrhagic site is essential for appropriate treatment. Endoscopic and angiographic advances are therapeutic alternatives to surgical resection. Endoscopic treatment is indicated in lesions with active bleeding or signs of recent hemorrhage. Arterial embolization can be a therapeutic alternative when arteriography shows active hemorrhage. Surgical treatment is reserved for patients with persistent bleeding in whom other options have failed.

Negative Endoskopie sowie Mehrzeilendetektor-CT bei Patienten mit akuter unterer Gastrointestinalblutung

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical use of (99m)Tc red blood cell imaging (RBC imaging) in patients presenting with acute lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding and negative endoscopy and multislice computed tomography (MSCT) findings.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In 31 consecutive patients with acute lower GI bleeding in whom the endoscopy findings were negative or the procedure was not feasible, dual-phase MSCT of the abdomen was performed [collimation 4x1 mm (arterial phase), 4x2.5 mm (venous phase)]. MSCT was followed by a (99m)Tc red blood cell scan in patients in whom no active bleeding was visible by CT. Images were created within 24 h after administration of the tracer, depending on the clinical symptoms. The results of the imaging modalities were correlated with clinical course and surgical treatment.

RESULTS

In 20 of 31 patients MSCT showed no active bleeding and a (99m)Tc red blood cell scan was performed. In 8 of 20 patients RBC imaging was also negative. Of these eight patients five were stable and did not require further diagnostic work-up; in the other three bleeding persisted and these patients required surgical treatment. In 12 of 20 patients active bleeding was demonstrated using a (99m)Tc red blood cell scan. Of 12 patients with positive RBC scintigraphy findings, 8 underwent surgery, where the site of bleeding was confirmed.

CONCLUSION

In patients with acute lower GI bleeding with negative or nondiagnostic endoscopy or MSCT findings, (99m)Tc red blood cell imaging is a useful tool in an emergency algorithm, improving the overall bleeding detection rate.

ED predictors of upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding in patients without hematemesis

OBJECTIVES

In patients with gastrointestinal (GI) tract bleeding, the bleeding source is uncertain in the absence of hematemesis. We sought to identify clinical variables predictive of an upper GI bleeding source.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study involved patients admitted via the ED for GI tract bleeding without hematemesis, who underwent confirmatory testing. We used logistic regression analysis to identify clinical variables independently associated with an upper GI source.

RESULTS

Among 325 patients, odds ratios for the strongest predictors were as follows: black stool, 16.6 (95% confidence interval [CI], 7.7-35.7); age less than 50 years, 8.4 (95% CI, 3.2-22.1); and blood urea nitrogen/creatinine ratio 30 or greater, 10.0 (95% CI, 4.0-25.6). Seven (5%) of 151 with none of these factors had an upper GI tract bleed, versus 63 (93%) of 68 with 2 or 3 factors.

CONCLUSION

Black stool, age less than 50 years, and blood urea nitrogen/creatinine ratio of 30 or greater independently predict an upper GI tract bleeding source.

Acute gastrointestinal bleeding: contrast-enhanced MDCT

With the introduction of multidetector row computed tomography (MDCT), CT is being considered a potential diagnostic method for patients with acute gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding. On arterial phase MDCT images, active GI bleeding is typically identified as a focal area of high attenuation within the bowel lumen, which represents a collection of contrast material that has been extravasated in association with arterial bleeding. Additional CT findings suggestive of acute GI bleeding are focal dilatation of fluid-filled bowel segment noted on contrast-enhanced CT and acute hematoma on unenhanced CT. In addition to detection of active bleeding, an advantage of contrast-enhanced MDCT is the ability to demonstrate morphologic changes in the GI tract, which could suggest specific conditions that cause acute GI bleeding such as intestinal tumors. Arterial phase contrast-enhanced MDCT is rapid, noninvasive, and accurate in detecting and localizing sites of bleeding in patients with acute GI bleeding. Contrast-enhanced MDCT may be a promising diagnostic option in patients with acute GI bleeding.

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding--management

Although acute LGIB is only about one fifth as common and is usually less hemodynamically significant than upper gastrointestinal bleeding, it presents numerous unique clinical challenges. The best diagnostic approach for patients with active bleeding is unknown, but urgent prepared colonoscopy is safe and likely to be beneficial (Fig. 3, Table 2). In patients who have aggressive bleeding or recurrent bleeding, it is critical for the practitioner to judge when angiography and surgery are necessary.

Superselective Catheterization and Embolization as First-Line Therapy for Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Emergent operative intervention for lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Advances in endovascular techniques have made superselective catheterization and embolization (SSCE) of small visceral arterial branches possible. We hypothesized that SSCE for LGIB would be an effective first-line therapy and associated with low mortality. We identified all patients that underwent visceral angiography at our institution from 1997 to 2003. Records from all patients with documented LGIB and in whom SSCE was used as first-line therapy were reviewed. Twenty-three patients (69 ± 11 years) were treated with SSCE as an initial intervention for LGIB. A definitive bleeding site was identified in 95 per cent of cases (22/23). Eleven patients (48%) developed an early complication [recurrent bleeding (n = 5; two required surgery), asymptomatic ischemic colonic mucosa (n = 3), acute renal insufficiency (n = 1; resolved), and femoral pseudo-aneurysm (n = 2; one treated operatively)]. Long-term (mean 19 months) follow-up was available for 17 patients. Five patients (22%) experienced recurrent LGIB, and three patients had evidence of colonic ischemic. One patient required endoscopic dilation of a stricture, and three underwent surgical resection. There was no mortality in our series. In this series, SSCE was an effective first-line therapy for LGIB. Rebleeding and ischemia rates were low.

Usefulness and validity of diagnostic nasogastric aspiration in patients without hematemesis

STUDY OBJECTIVE

We estimate the test characteristics of nasogastric aspiration to diagnose upper gastrointestinal tract hemorrhage in patients without hematemesis.

METHODS

In this retrospective cohort study, medical records from patients admitted to 2 urban hospitals between 1997 and 2002 for gastrointestinal tract bleeding without hematemesis were reviewed. Positive nasogastric aspiration results were classified by the severity of hemorrhage, and negative results were classified by the presence or absence of bile. The reference standard for nasogastric aspiration was the source of bleeding-upper versus non--upper gastrointestinal tract--from the hospital discharge summary. Confidence intervals (CIs) for proportions and likelihood ratios (LRs) were calculated.

RESULTS

Of 333 eligible patients, 235 were offered nasogastric aspiration, and 220 accepted the test. Results of 220 attempts were distributed as follows: negative, 158 (72%), including 9 (4%) with bile; nasogastric aspiration aborted, 13 (6%); and positive, 49 (23%), including 4 (2%) that were strongly positive (> or =450 mL red blood). Test characteristics of nasogastric aspiration to detect upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding in 213 patients with a reference standard diagnosis were as follows: sensitivity 42% (95% CI 32% to 51%), specificity 91% (95% CI 83% to 95%), negative predictive value 64% (95% CI 56% to 71%), and positive predictive value 92% (95% CI 79% to 97%). The nasogastric aspiration accurately predicted the source of bleeding in 66% of patients (95% CI 59% to 72%). The likelihood ratio of a positive nasogastric aspiration was 11 (95% CI 4 to 30), and the likelihood ratio of a negative nasogastric aspiration was 0.6 (95% CI 0.5 to 0.7).

CONCLUSION

In patients without hematemesis, a positive nasogastric aspiration, seen in 23%, indicates probable upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding (LR+ 11), but a negative nasogastric aspiration, seen in 72%, provides little information (LR- 0.6).

Endoscopic Management of Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Colonoscopy continues to be the primary tool for diagnostic evaluation and management of lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB). With the advent of newer endoscopy delivery therapeutic modalities, the treatment of LGIB has changed dramatically over the decades. The most dramatic change has been the role of surgery, which has been substantially reduced due to the therapeutic colonoscopy. This article reviews recent advances in the endoscopic treatment options in LGIB of the colon and rectum.

[Lower gastrointestinal bleeding due to ileal lipoma. Diagnosis contribution of contrast enhanced helical CT]

Jejunoileal gastrointestinal hemorrhage is uncommon and difficult to diagnose. Ileal lipoma is an unusual cause of jejunoileal bleeding. We report the case of a 45-Year-old patient admitted for acute gastrointestinal bleeding. The patient was taking aspirin at admission. A bleeding intussuscepted ileal lipoma was localized with a contrast enhanced helical computed tomography. This diagnosis was confirmed by laparotomy.

Prersonal view: going around in circles -- circuitous medical management plans

Physicians occasionally embark on a work-up that, after a lengthy path, leads them to a clinical situation similar to that from which they started their original pursuit. This article aims to describe the characteristics of circular medical management and means for its avoidance. The underlying medical problem often presents itself initially as a bewildering array of consecutive outcomes similar to a complex decision tree. On closer inspection, however, few of the outcomes are associated with a high probability, and only one path stands out as the most likely one to take. This path usually ends in such options as expectant management, supportive measures or doing nothing, which are already available at the onset of work-up. If medical management is drawn out and takes a long time to complete, sight of its circular nature is easily lost. If many different specialists care for a patient, little appreciation for circular paths occurs. A prospective outline of the management plan and the elimination of paths with low a priori probability can help to prevent unnecessary medical interventions. The physician may then come to realize that standing still and waiting become as effective and less costly than a lengthy circular work-up.

General principles to enhance practice patterns in gastrointestinal endoscopy

AIM

To develop general rules on how to pursue a therapeutic goal of interventional endoscopy without getting lost in abundant details.

METHODS

The influences of various medical interventions on the survival of a patient with gastrointestinal haemorrhage are modelled by an influence diagram. Survival is the focal point of multiple influences affecting its overall strength. Any downstream influence can represent the focal point of other preceding upstream influences. The mathematics underlying the influence diagram are similar to those of a decision tree with some notable exceptions. Its formalism allows one to consider inhibitory and additive influences and to include in the same analysis non-commensurable qualities, such as correct diagnosis, haemostasis or survival.

RESULTS

The analysis reveals five general rules. First, the large number of factors involved in successful endoscopy render the influence of each individual factor less important. Second, a single factor that exerts its influence on many subsequent factors tends to be associated with an overall greater relevance. Third, remote influences are of lesser relevance than those directly linked to the final outcome. Fourth, factors multiplied by several consecutive probabilities lose their influence. Fifth, endoscopists need to assess the relevance of individual factors with respect to the immediate goals of endoscopy, as well as the general goals of patient well-being.

CONCLUSIONS

The influence model of endoscopic haemostasis reveals several general principles that can be utilized as tools in endoscopy training.

Endoscopic treatment of lower gastrointestinal bleeding

Urgent colonoscopy has emerged as the initial diagnostic and main therapeutic tool in the evaluation and treatment of colonic lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Endoscopic therapy can effectively treat most cases of colonic bleeding with a demonstrable improvement in clinical outcome parameters. The identification of high-risk stigmata of hemorrhage enables selective targeting of endoscopic therapy to lesions at high risk of rebleeding. Advances in technologies such as novel mechanical methods of hemostasis (eg, metallic clips), injection techniques (eg, cyanoacrylate injection), and the widening application of established endoscopic hemostatic techniques (eg, rubber-band ligation) to colonic lesions offers the possibility of further improvements in the efficacy of endoscopic hemostasis. Clinical trials are needed to compare these novel endoscopic techniques with more conventional approaches to establish the best form of endoscopic therapy for different bleeding lesions and finally to establish more definitively the optimal timing of colonoscopy.