Diagnosis and management of acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding: European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) Guideline

Updated evidence on epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment for colonic diverticular bleeding

Since 2020, multiple large-scale studies (CODE BLUE-J) in Japan have accelerated the accumulation of evidence on colonic diverticular bleeding (CDB). This review summarizes the latest findings regarding CDB epidemiology and endoscopic hemostasis. Recent data show that CDB has become the most common cause of lower gastrointestinal bleeding in Japan, driven by an aging population and the increased use of antithrombotic medications. Although 70%-90% of patients achieve spontaneous hemostasis, rebleeding occurs in up to 35% of cases within 1 year. Despite an overall mortality rate of < 1%, patients with CDB can present with hypovolemic shock and may require urgent intervention. There are no effective pharmacological treatments for controlling CDB. Therefore, endoscopic therapy plays a crucial role in its management. Based on available evidence, both clipping and endoscopic band ligation are considered effective initial treatments. Recent studies indicate that direct clipping reduces early rebleeding compared with indirect clipping, while endoscopic band ligation achieves lower rebleeding rates (13%-15%) than clipping. The choice between direct clipping and endoscopic band ligation depends on the diverticulum location and the presence of active bleeding. Newer techniques, such as over-the-scope clip and self-assembling peptide application, have shown potential, but require further study. The detection of the bleeding source remains challenging because accurate identification is essential for successful hemostasis. Additional research is needed to refine the endoscopic diagnostic and therapeutic techniques, prevent rebleeding, and improve patient outcomes.

Advancement of haemostatic self-assembling peptides in the treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding: What role for PuraStat®?

PuraStat® is a novel self-assembling peptide (SAP) used as a haemostatic agent in endoscopy, with widespread application in surgical settings. While the current evidence, though deserving further expansion, demonstrates a good haemostatic performance profile for this substance, there remains significant heterogeneity among studies, and an analysis of this SAP as monotherapy is not always available. The recent study by Bellester et al in the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy provided an optimal effectiveness profile of this SAP in 45 patients treated for gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, particularly highlighting data on its use as monotherapy in upper GI bleeding. This invited article outlines the current evidence on PuraStat® and offers a commentary on the recently published study.

The Role of Somatostatin in the Gastrointestinal Tract

The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is responsible for food digestion and host protection from harmful stimuli; however, its function as an endocrine organ is also well documented. Somatostatin (SST) was first discovered in the hypothalamus, but the GI tract is its main producer and target organ. SST is a potent inhibitor of many GI functions, including peristalsis, hormone secretion, and gastric acid production, while its anti-inflammatory effects contribute to the integrity of the intestinal barrier. These data make SST and its analogs useful agents in clinical practice. As our understanding of SST metabolism and function evolves, their use in a wide variety of medical conditions can improve patient care.

Endoscopic management of upper non-variceal and lower gastrointestinal bleeding: Where do we stand?

Non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) remains a significant clinical challenge with a 30-day mortality of up to 11%. Peptic ulcers are the most common cause, followed by other conditions like Mallory-Weiss syndrome, Dieulafoy's lesions, and gastric neoplasms. Treatment strategies include acid-suppressive therapy, endoscopic interventions, and surgical or radiological procedures. Endoscopic techniques such as over-the-scope clips, coagulation graspers, and endoscopic ultrasound-guided treatments have significantly improved outcomes, reducing rebleeding rates and the need for surgery. Injectable therapies, mechanical hemostasis via clips, and thermal modalities (e.g., electrocoagulation, argon plasma coagulation) remain standard approaches for active bleeding. Newer hemostatic powders, such as TC-325, offer promising non-contact treatments, particularly in cases of refractory bleeding or malignancy. Doppler endoscopic probes aid in risk stratification by detecting residual arterial blood flow, improving the efficacy of endoscopic therapy and reducing rebleeding risks. For small bowel bleeding, endoscopic management with enteroscopy and thermal therapies remains key, though medical therapies are evolving. Lower GIB, which often involves conditions like diverticular disease and angioectasia, requires a comprehensive approach combining endoscopic, radiologic, and surgical interventions. Pharmacologic management focuses on balancing antithrombotic therapy with bleeding risks, with reversal agents playing a crucial role in life-threatening bleeding episodes. This review highlights advances in diagnostic tools and endoscopic therapies that have enhanced management outcomes for GIB across various etiologies.

Patients with Gastrointestinal Bleeding and Atrial Fibrillation: Potential Ideal Target for Epicardial Appendage Occlusion

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with atrial fibrillation is an indication for left appendage occlusion. All endovascular devices mandate antithrombotic therapies: rebleeding risk remains an issue. To date, there are no reports on gastrointestinal rebleeding and stroke prevention by left appendage occlusion without any antithrombotic therapy in this category of patients.

METHODS

A total of 129 patients (male 85, mean age 76.6 ± 7.1, CHA2DS2Vasc 3.8 ± 1.5, HASBLED 3.3 ± 1.0; upper GI bleeding 10%, lower GI bleeding 86%, obscure occult 4.6%, on NOACS full dose 77.5%, NOACs reduced dose 13.1%, on anti-vitamin K 9.3%) with atrial fibrillation and history of repetitive gastrointestinal bleeding from ten centers underwent standalone thoracoscopic epicardial appendage closure without antithrombotic therapy for the entire follow up.

RESULTS

The observed bleeding rate was 0.91 events per year, equivalent to a relative risk of RR = 0.17 (p = 0.02) and a relative risk reduction (RRR) of 83%. The observed relative risk of stroke was 0.91 events per year, with a relative risk of RR = 0.19 (p = 0.03) and a relative risk reduction (RRR) of 81%.

CONCLUSION

Standalone epicardial appendage occlusion without antithrombotic therapy in patients with repetitive gastrointestinal bleeding is safe and promising when rebleeding and stroke risk reduction need to be optimized.

Trans-arterial embolization for treatment of acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding-a multicenter analysis

PURPOSE

To assess the technical feasibility, safety, and clinical success rate of trans-arterial embolization (TAE) as an emergency treatment for acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Consecutive patients who received urgent TAE due to active LGIB at five academic centers in Germany were retrospectively analyzed. LGIB was confirmed and localized using contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) or endoscopy. Outcome parameters including technical and clinical success rates as well as ischemia-related adverse events were analyzed. Furthermore, treatment-related variables that may affect technical and clinical success were analyzed using a regression model.

RESULTS

One hundred and forty-one patients were included. TAE was performed in 91% (128/141) of patients. In 81% (114/141) of patients, TAE was performed due to active bleeding visible at angiography, the remaining 10% (14/141) underwent empiric embolization based on pre-interventional imaging. In 9% (13/141) of patients, no TAE was performed. Microcoils were the most used embolic 48.5% (62/128), followed by glue 23.5% (30/128) and Microparticles (8%; 10/128). In the case of bleeding visible in angiography, the technical success rate was 100% (114/114); the clinical success rate was 93.6% (120/128). Severe ischemia-related adverse events necessitating bowel surgery occurred in 14% (18/128) of all patients after embolization. Thirty-day mortality was 14% (21/141). Regression analysis revealed no significant correlations but a statistical trend toward a higher incidence of bowel resection when glue was used (p = 0.090) and toward a higher 30-day mortality when an unselective embolization was performed (p = 0.057).

CONCLUSION

TAE for LGIB has a high technical and clinical success rate. Severe ischemia-related adverse events necessitating bowel surgery occurred in 14% of patients without identifying a significant correlation to the embolization technique or an embolic.

KEY POINTS

Question Is trans-arterial embolization (TAE) viable as an emergency treatment for acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB)? Findings TAE demonstrated a 100% technical and 93.6% clinical success rate in treating acute LGIB, with severe ischemia-related adverse events occurring in 14% of patients. Clinical relevance TAE is highly effective and has an acceptable complication rate in treating lower gastrointestinal bleeding, emphasizing the need for a direct head-to-head comparison between endovascular and endoscopic therapy.

Delphi consensus statement for the management of delayed post-polypectomy bleeding

Background

Delayed post-polypectomy bleeding (DPPB) is the most common adverse event following colonic polypectomy, yet its management remains highly heterogeneous and lacks standardization. A considerable number of colonoscopies performed for DPPB may be unnecessary and do not result in hemostatic intervention.

Objectives

To develop evidence-based statements to guide clinical decision-making in DPPB.

Design

Multidisciplinary Delphi consensus statement.

Methods

A panel of 29 experts in gastroenterology, hematology, radiology, and surgery was assembled. Through a systematic review of the literature and a modified Delphi process, consensus statements were developed through iterative rounds of anonymous voting. Statements were revised following anonymous voting and feedback at each round. Those achieving 80% agreement were accepted.

Results

The expert panel reached a consensus on 36 statements, covering areas such as antithrombotic management, bowel preparation, colonoscopy indications, and therapeutic hemostatic modalities. Key recommendations include guidance for managing self-limited bleeding and risk stratification to reduce the rate of unnecessary colonoscopies, as well as recommendations for hemodynamically unstable patients who may require primary angioembolization. A practical clinical algorithm is proposed.

Conclusion

This document provides a consensus-based framework for managing DPPB. These recommendations aim to improve patient outcomes and optimize healthcare resources while fostering a standardized approach to this common adverse event.

Transarterial embolization for acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding: a retrospective bicentric study

Transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) represents an effective treatment option for acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB). This retrospective, bicentric study evaluated the safety and efficacy of TAE in 77 patients with LGIB. The mean patient age was 68.39 ± 17.54 years, and the mean pre-procedural hemoglobin was 7.87 ± 1.89 g/dL. The most common cause of LGIB was angiodysplasia (36.2%). Pre-procedural computed tomography angiography (CTA) detected active bleeding in 83% of cases. Technical success was achieved in 98.7% of patients, and 30-day clinical success was achieved in 87%. The rebleeding rate was 13%, and the ischemic complication rate was 11.7%. There were no significant associations between clinical success and sex, age, coagulopathy, first-line management, active bleeding signs, culprit vessel, superior mesenteric artery, or time between CTA and digital subtraction angiography. TAE is a safe and effective procedure for LGIB, with high technical and acceptable clinical success rates. It should be considered a standard procedure in select patients, especially when endoscopic treatment is contraindicated or not feasible.

Diagnosis and management of gastrointestinal hemorrhage: What you need to know

ABSTRACT

Acute gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage is a common cause for hospital admission that requires prompt diagnosis and multidisciplinary management to optimize clinical outcomes. Acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) includes both upper and lower GI tract sources with an extensive list of differential pathologies. This review provides a systematic approach to both upper and lower GIB management, emphasizing initial resuscitation, stabilization, diagnostic evaluation to identify the source, and treatment modalities. Endoscopy remains the cornerstone for diagnostic and interventional purposes, significantly reducing the need for surgical procedures. However, lower GIB and severe or refractory cases may necessitate additional imaging and interventions, including surgical management. Integrating clinical guidelines, evidence-based strategies, and individualized care, this review delineates what you need to know to diagnose and manage acute GI hemorrhage.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/Care Management; Level III.

In-hospital mortality in patients with lower gastrointestinal bleeding: development and validation of a prediction score

BACKGROUND

 Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is a common condition linked to increased morbidity, healthcare costs, and mortality. Currently, no prospectively validated prognostic model exists to predict mortality in patients with LGIB. Our aim was to develop and validate a risk score that could accurately predict in-hospital mortality of patients admitted for LGIB.

METHODS

 Patient data from a nationwide cohort study in 15 centers in Italy (2019-2020) were used to derive the risk score, the Acute Lower gastrointestinal Bleeding and In-hospital mortality (ALIBI) score; the model was then externally validated in a cohort of consecutive patients hospitalized for LGIB in 12 centers from six countries (Italy, Spain, France, Greece, Iran, and Brazil) from 2022 to 2024. The main outcome was in-hospital mortality; we also reported rebleeding rates and the in-hospital mortality rate stratified by risk score and timing of colonoscopy. RESULTS : Among 1198 patients in the derivation cohort, 105 (8.8%) re-bled and 41 (3.4%) died. Age, Charlson Co-morbidity Index, in-hospital onset, hemodynamic instability, and creatinine level were independent predictors of in-hospital mortality. The model demonstrated excellent discrimination (area under the receiver operating curve [AUROC] 0.81, 95%CI 0.75-0.87) and calibration. In the validation cohort (n = 752 patients), the model's good discrimination (AUROC 0.79, 95%CI 0.72-0.86) and calibration were confirmed. Patients were categorized as low (0-4 points; 1% mortality), intermediate (5-9 points; 4.6% mortality), or high risk (10-13 points; 19.1% mortality). CONCLUSION : A new validated score effectively predicts in-hospital mortality in patients with LGIB, aiding in their risk stratification and management.

Successful management by laparoscopic total gastrectomy following embolization for gastric cancer with overt bleeding: two case reports

Gastric cancer (GC) bleeding is typically silent and chronic. However, active bleeding from GC can lead to life-threatening conditions. Endoscopic haemostasis is sometimes difficult and emergency surgery is associated with high postoperative complication rates. We encountered two cases of life-threatening GC haemorrhage. The patients were successfully treated with transcatheter arterial embolization and subsequent elective laparoscopic total gastrectomy. Preoperative embolization is effective for subsequent minimally invasive elective surgery in patients with severe bleeding from GC.

Environmental and Clinical Factors Concerning Gastrointestinal Bleeding: An Umbrella Review of Meta-Analyses

OBJECTIVES

Gastrointestinal bleeding, an emergency and critical disease, is affected by multiple factors. This study aims to systematically summarize and appraise various factors associated with gastrointestinal bleeding.

DESIGN

Umbrella review.

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Meta-analyses that evaluated environmental and clinical factors concerning gastrointestinal bleeding.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search to identify eligible meta-analyses. For each included study, the risk estimates, heterogeneity estimates, small-study effects, excess significance tests, and publication biases were recalculated and appraised. Furthermore, we considered the methodologic quality and classified the evidence.

RESULTS

In this study, 51 beneficial and 44 harmful associations were found. This study found that preemptive transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt was the most reliable treatment to reduce gastroesophageal variceal bleeding and mortality risk, followed by antibiotics. For gastroduodenal ulcer bleeding, Yunnan Baiyao and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) were relatively dependable treatment drugs, and the comparatively reliable prophylactic drugs comprised PPIs and H2-receptor antagonists. Patients with hemodynamic instability and larger ulcers had a higher risk of rebleeding. Both weekend admissions and the combination of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were high-risk factors for upper gastrointestinal bleeding and mortality. We also found that tranexamic acid was a credible drug for overall gastrointestinal bleeding. Meanwhile, aspirin, warfarin, diabetes, and renal failure were all high-risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Altogether, many factors can substantially influence gastrointestinal bleeding. Therefore, in daily life and clinical practice, we should not only remain cautious in prescribing and taking some drugs but also pay attention to the management of lifestyle and underlying diseases. If necessary, protective drugs should be properly supplemented.

Management of gastrointestinal bleed in the intensive care setting, an updated literature review

Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is a critical and potentially life-threatening condition frequently observed in the intensive care unit (ICU). This literature review consolidates current insights on the epidemiology, etiology, management, and outcomes of GI bleeding in critically ill patients. GI bleeding remains a significant concern, especially among patients with underlying risk factors such as coagulopathy, mechanical ventilation, and renal failure. Managing GI bleeding in the ICU requires a multidisciplinary approach, including resuscitation, endoscopic intervention, pharmacologic therapy, and sometimes surgical procedures. Even with enhanced management strategies, GI bleeding in the ICU is associated with considerable morbidity and mortality, particularly when complicated by multi-organ failure. This review reiterates the need for adequate resuscitation and interventions in managing GI bleeding in critically ill patients, aiming to enhance survival rates and improve the quality of care within the ICU setting.

Impact of simulated animated video education on patients' disease uncertainty, anxiety, and sleep quality in digestive endoscopy examination

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal endoscopy examinations were commonly associated with patient uncertainty, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Simulated animated video education has emerged as a potential intervention to address these psychosocial aspects in the healthcare setting. This study explores the impact of simulated animated video education on patients' disease uncertainty, anxiety, and sleep quality in the context of digestive endoscopy examinations.

METHODS

A total 166 patients who underwent digestive endoscopy examinations were conducted and divided into the conventional education group (n = 77) and the simulated animated video education group (n = 89). Disease uncertainty was assessed using the Mishel's Uncertainty in Illness Scale (MUIS), anxiety was evaluated using the Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HAMA), and sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI).

RESULTS

Both conventional and simulated animated video education interventions led to a reduction in disease uncertainty, anxiety levels, and improvement in sleep quality post-education and at the one-month follow-up. However, the simulated animated video education group exhibited greater reductions in disease uncertainty (post-education: 86.69 ± 2.65 vs. 85.65 ± 3.46, P = 0.031; follow-up: 82.57 ± 4.57 vs. 81.21 ± 3.69, P = 0.038), anxiety (post-education: 19.88 ± 3.78 vs.18.75 ± 3.42, P = 0.046; follow-up: 18.59 ± 3.4 vs. 17.54 ± 3.25, P = 0.046), and improvement in sleep quality (post-education: 5.57 ± 1.25 vs. 5.15 ± 1.1, P = 0.023; follow-up: 5.22 ± 1.13 vs. 4.89 ± 0.86, P = 0.038) compared to the conventional education group.

CONCLUSION

The study findings suggest that simulated animated video education was associated with reduced disease uncertainty, alleviated anxiety, and improved sleep quality among patients undergoing gastrointestinal endoscopy.

The timing of surgical interventions following the implantation of coronary drug-eluting stents in patients undergoing gastrointestinal cancer surgery: a multicenter retrospective cohort study

AIM

We aim to investigate the optimal timing for surgical interventions to maximize patient benefit.

BACKGROUND

The guidelines recommending a minimum deferral of 6 months for non-cardiac surgeries following drug-eluting stent percutaneous coronary intervention (DES-PCI) do not adequately address the requirements for individuals undergoing gastrointestinal cancer surgery (GCS).

METHODS

The study encompassed 2501 patients treated from January 2017 to December 2021, all of whom underwent GCS within 1 year after DES-PCI. We conducted an analysis by comparing the occurrence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs) within 30 days post-surgery at different time points.

RESULTS

This study enrolled a total of 2501 participants with meticulously recorded data who underwent DES-PCI and subsequently underwent GCS within 1 year post-implantation. The incidence rate of MACEs is 14.2%, including MI (5.1%), HF (5.8%), IS (3.2%), and cardiac death (0.2%), across all patients in this study. The threshold probability was determined using the Youden Index, resulting in a value of 0.320, corresponding to a "time-to-surgery value" of 87. Significant statistical differences were observed in the occurrence rates of MACEs for adjacent time intervals at 30 days ( P < 0.001), 90 days ( P < 0.009), and 180 days ( P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The timing of surgical intervention following DES-PCI significantly influences the occurrence of MACEs at 1, 3, and 6 months. GCS may be appropriately advanced within the 6-month timeframe, but with the exception of emergency, efforts should be made to defer them beyond the initial month.

Impact of long-term trends on outcomes in the management of colonic diverticular bleeding: mediation analyses in a large multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Despite accumulating evidence and recommendations for management of colonic diverticular bleeding (CDB), the changes in its clinical management and outcomes remain unknown.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective tendency analysis on a biennial basis, a propensity score-matched cohort study between the first and latter half groups, and mediation analyses to compare the diagnostic and treatment methods between January 2010 and December 2019 (CODE BLUE-J Study).

RESULTS

A total of 6575 patients with CDB were included. While the use of colonoscopy as the initial diagnostic procedure declined, the use of computed tomography (CT) increased in both the trend test and before-and-after comparisons. In hemostasis therapy, the use of endoscopic clips declined and band ligation increased. Interventional radiology remained unchanged; however, the number of surgeries decreased over time. The stigmata of recent hemorrhage (SRH) detection rate and length of hospital stay (LOS) improved significantly. Mediation analyses showed that use of a distal attachment and water-jet scope contributed to an improved SRH detection rate, and use of band ligation contributed to preventing rebleeding within 30 days.

CONCLUSIONS

Management strategies for CDB have changed in the past decade, particularly regarding the increased use of CT and decreased need for surgery. However, the main outcomes, except for the SRH detection rate and LOS, did not improve. The widespread use of distal attachment, water-jet scope, and band ligation could improve outcomes in CDB management.

Major Bleeding in the Emergency Department: A Practical Guide for Optimal Management

Major bleeding is a life-threatening condition with high morbidity and mortality. Trauma, gastrointestinal bleeding, haemoptysis, intracranial haemorrhage or other causes of bleeding represent major concerns in the Emergency Department (ED), especially when complicated by haemodynamic instability. Severity and source of bleeding, comorbidities, and prior use of anticoagulants are pivotal factors affecting both the clinical status and the patients' differential response to haemorrhage. Thus, risk stratification is fundamental in the initial assessment of patients with bleeding. Aggressive resuscitation is the principal step for achieving haemodynamic stabilization of the patient, which will further allow appropriate interventions to be made for the definite control of bleeding. Overall management of major bleeding in the ED should follow a holistic individualized approach which includes haemodynamic stabilization, repletion of volume and blood loss, and reversal of coagulopathy and identification of the source of bleeding. The aim of the present practical guide is to provide an update on recent epidemiological data about the most common etiologies of bleeding and summarize the latest evidence regarding the bundles of care for the management of patients with major bleeding of traumatic or non-traumatic etiology in the ED.

Adherence to patient blood management strategy in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding: a prospective nationwide multicenter study

INTRODUCTION

Patient blood management (PBM) adherence in clinical practice is unclear. This real-world practice study assessed the management of patients with gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding after the implementation of the PBM strategy.

METHODS

This was a nationwide multicenter and prospective study involving consecutive adults with GI bleeding between March 2019 and March 2021. Patients were examined according to hemoglobin (Hb) level at admission (<7 g/dl, n  = 93; 7-8 g/dl, n  = 47; 8-9 g/dl, n  = 61; and >9 g/dl, n  = 249). Study outcomes measures were morbidity and mortality during hospitalization and at 3- and 6-month follow-up. Appropriate anemia or iron deficiency management was considered when adherence to PBM policy was higher than 75%.

RESULTS

A total of 450 patients (57.6% men, median age: 74 years, interquartile range: 63-82) were included. Overall, 55.1% and 59.3% of patients received transfusion and iron supplementation, respectively. The rates of appropriate transfusion and iron supplementation adherence were 90.9% (range: 86.9-93.5%, P  = 0.109) and 81.8% (range: 78.5-85.1%, P  = 0.041), depending on Hb level, respectively. No associations were observed between adherence to the PBM strategy and length of stay ( P  = 0.263) or risk of further bleeding ( P  = 0.742). Patients who were transfused [hazard ratio (HR): 0.79, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.27-0.85] and iron supplemented (HR: 0.91, 95% CI: 0.38-1.41), however, appropriately achieved a lower risk of death. Age (HR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.12-1.25) and further bleeding (HR: 39.08, 95% CI: 4.01-181.24) were poor prognostic factors. No serious adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

In this nationwide study, there is a high level of adherence and safety of PBM for the treatment of GI bleeding. Adherence to the PBM strategy improved outcomes in patients with GI bleeding.

Surgical Emergencies in Rectal Cancer: A Narrative Review

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most diagnosed cancer worldwide and the second most common cause of cancer death. About 20% of patients diagnosed with rectal cancer present with emergency symptoms. Typical symptoms include acute bleeding, obstruction, and perforation. These emergency situations can be life-threatening and may lead to decreased life expectancy and quality of life. Bowel perforation is the most common cause of emergency presentation, followed by obstruction and acute bleeding. This narrative review analyzes the existing literature regarding the acute presentation of rectal cancer, producing three flow charts for the management of the main rectal emergencies. The treatment of acute bleeding differs based on the hemodynamic status. Treatment for bowel perforation or occlusion differs depending on whether the lesion is intraperitoneal or extraperitoneal. Emergency presentations seem to be strongly associated with several poor prognostic factors, including lymphovascular invasion, perineural invasion, and high-grade or poorly differentiated tumors. An association between emergency presentation and larger tumor size, advanced tumor stage, node-positive disease, and metastatic disease is reported in the literature. The difference between colon and rectal cancer, both in terms of treatment and prognosis, has been widely acknowledged. Thus, comprehensive studies and dedicated guidelines are needed, considering the lack of literature published about rectal cancer in an emergency setting.

Risk factors for hemocoagulase-associated hypofibrinogenemia in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding

BACKGROUND

With the widespread use of hemocoagulase in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding, clinicians have become increasingly concerned about coagulation disorders associated with this medication. Risk factors for hypofibrinogenemia associated with hemocoagulase are poorly understood.

AIM

To determine risk factors for hemocoagulase-associated hypofibrinogenemia in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of the medical documentation of hospitalized patients treated with hemocoagulase for gastrointestinal bleeding. Hypofibrinogenemia was defined as a decrease in plasma fibrinogen concentration to less than 2.0 g/L. The included patients were divided into two groups: acquired hypofibrinogenemia group and non-hypofibrinogenemia group. We used logistic regression analysis to identify potential risk factors and established risk assessment criteria by employing a receiver operating characteristic curve.

RESULTS

There were 36 patients in the acquired hypofibrinogenemia group and 73 patients in the non-hypofibrinogenemia group. The hypofibrinogenemia group showed higher rates of intensive care unit admissions (P = 0.021), more female patients (P = 0.005), higher in-hospital mortality (P = 0.027), larger hemocoagulase doses (P = 0.026), more Packed Red Cells transfusions (P = 0.024), and lower baseline fibrinogen levels (P < 0.000). Binary logistic regression was employed to examine the risk factors associated with acquired hypofibrinogenemia. The analysis revealed that baseline fibrinogen [odds ratio (OR) 0.252, 95%CI: 0.137-0.464, P < 0.000], total hemocoagulase doses (OR 1.074, 95%CI: 1.015-1.137, P = 0.014), and female gender (OR 2.856, 95%CI: 1.015-8.037, P = 0.047) were statistically significant risk factors.

CONCLUSION

Higher doses of total hemocoagulase, female gender, and a lower baseline fibrinogen level were risk factors for hemocoagulase-associated hypofibrinogenemia in patients with gastrointestinal bleeding.

Urgent Reversal of Direct Oral Anticoagulants in Critical and Life-Threatening Bleeding: A Multidisciplinary Expert Consensus

Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) are increasingly being used due to their improved efficacy/safety ratio and lower clinical and economic burden when compared to vitamin K antagonists. However, bleeding is still the most frequent complication associated with DOACs, and although rare, bleeding episodes can be life-threatening or critical. The impact of DOAC anticoagulation activity during a bleeding event must be evaluated according to patient clinical assessment, dosage and time from last intake, the presence of comorbidities (especially kidney and liver dysfunction), and, whenever possible, coagulation tests. Unfortunately, DOACs' anticoagulation activity is not easily or usually detectable in routine common coagulation testing. Specific DOAC tests allow for specific drug monitoring, but they are too time consuming, and are usually unavailable in routine emergency practice. If a clinically relevant DOAC plasma concentration is assumed or proven in a severe bleeding scenario, DOAC reversal is needed to restore hemostasis. This experts' consensus provides a narrative review about DOAC reversal and practical life-threatening bleeding management in several scenarios (trauma, intracranial hemorrhage and gastrointestinal bleeding), focusing on the selection of patients to whom specific reversal agents should be given.

A comprehensive review and update on acute severe lower gastrointestinal bleeding in Crohn's disease: a management algorithm

Acute severe lower gastrointestinal bleeding is a rare but potentially fatal complication of Crohn's disease (CD), affecting between 0.6% and 5.5% of CD patients during their lifelong disease course. Managing bleeding episodes effectively hinges on vital resuscitation. Endoscopic evaluation and computed tomography play crucial roles in accurate identification and intervention. Fortunately, most bleeding episodes can be successfully managed through appropriate conservative treatment. Medical therapies, particularly infliximab, aim to induce and maintain mucosal healing and serve as the leading treatment approach. Minimally invasive procedures, such as endoscopic hemostasis and angio-embolization, can achieve immediate hemostasis. Surgical treatment is only considered a last resort when conservative therapies fail. Despite achieving hemostasis, the risk of rebleeding ranges from 19.0% to 50.5%. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive and updated overview of the clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, therapeutic approaches, and prognostic outcomes associated with acute severe gastrointestinal bleeding in CD. Furthermore, we aimed to propose a management algorithm to assist clinicians in the effective management of this condition.

Comparison of risk scores for predicting adverse outcomes in acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding

Objective

Acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding is a common emergency in gastroenterology. Currently, there is insufficient information to predict adverse outcomes in patients with acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Our study aimed to compare the effectiveness of the clinical risk scores currently utilized and their ability to predict significant outcomes in lower gastrointestinal bleeding.

Methods

We conducted a prognostic study of patients hospitalized for acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding who underwent colonoscopy or angiography at a single-center hospital between January 2015 and October 2023. Adverse outcomes associated with ALGIB included rebleeding, blood transfusion, hemostatic interventions, and in-hospital death. We calculated three risk scores at admission (Oakland, Birmingham, SALGIB). We measured the accuracy of these scores using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and compared them with DeLong's test.

Results

222 patients with confirmed lower gastrointestinal bleeding (aged 64 years, 53-75) were finally included. The most common diagnoses were colorectal cancer (28 %) and hemorrhoids (14 %). The Oakland score, Birmingham score, and SALGIB score displayed comparable performance in predicting any adverse outcome (AUC = 0.54, 0.53, 0.55). However, none of the scores were able to sufficiently discriminate rebleeding, blood transfusion, or hemostatic intervention. Using the Youden index, cutoff points for predicting undesired results were identified for the Oakland score at 13, Birmingham score at 3, and SALGIB score at 2.

Conclusions

None of the three scores demonstrated satisfactory discrimination for adverse outcomes. Therefore, it is necessary to develop novel risk stratification scores with higher performance to improve risk stratification in acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding.

Urgent Contrast-Enhanced Computed Tomography before Early Colonoscopy in the Management of Colonic Diverticular Bleeding: A Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial

INTRODUCTION

Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CE-CT) has been gaining attention as an initial investigation in the management of colonic diverticular bleeding (CDB), yet the role of CE-CT other than its diagnostic yield has not been adequately clarified. We aimed to determine whether the use of urgent CE-CT improves identification of stigmata of recent hemorrhage (SRH) in subsequently performed early colonoscopy (≤24 h of arrival) or other clinical outcomes of CDB.

METHODS

We conducted a randomized, open-label, controlled trial at 23 institutions in Japan. Outpatients with suspected CDB were randomly assigned to undergo either urgent CE-CT followed by early colonoscopy (urgent-CE-CT + early-colonoscopy group) or early colonoscopy alone (early-colonoscopy group). The primary outcome was SRH identification. Secondary outcomes included successful endoscopic hemostasis, early (<30 days) and late (<1 year) rebleeding, length of hospital stay, and transfusion requirements.

RESULTS

In total, 240 patients, mostly in a hemodynamically stable condition, were randomized. A contrast extravasation on CE-CT was observed in 20 of 115 patients (17.4%) in the urgent-CE-CT + early-colonoscopy group. SRH was identified in 23 of 115 patients (20.0%) in the urgent-CE-CT + early-colonoscopy group and 21 of 118 patients (17.8%) in the early-colonoscopy group (difference, 2.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], -7.9 to 12.3; p = 0.739). Successful endoscopic hemostasis was achieved in 21 patients in each group (18.3% and 17.8%, respectively) (difference, 0.5; 95% CI, -9.4 to 10.4; p = 1.000). There were also no significant differences between groups in early and late rebleeding, length of hospital stay, and transfusion requirements.

CONCLUSION

The use of urgent CE-CT before early colonoscopy did not improve SRH identification or other clinical outcomes in patients with suspected CDB in a hemodynamically stable condition. The routine use of urgent CE-CT as an initial investigation is not recommended in this population, also considering the low rate of extravasation-positive cases (UMIN registry number, UMIN000026865).

Efficacy of novel endoscopic hemostatic agent for bleeding control and prevention: Results from a prospective, multicenter national registry

Background and study aims Topical hemostatic agents emerged as a new treatment modality for gastrointestinal bleeding. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and efficacy of PuraStat for control of active bleeding and for prevention of bleeding after different operative endoscopy procedures. Patients and methods A national, multicenter, observational registry was established to collect data from ten Italian centers from June 2021 to February 2023. Demographics, type of application (active gastrointestinal bleeding or prevention after endoscopic procedures, site, amount of gel used, completeness of coverage of the treated area), outcomes (rates of intraprocedural hemostasis and bleeding events during 30-day follow-up), and adverse events (AEs) were prospectively analyzed. Results Four hundred and one patients were treated for active gastrointestinal bleeding or as a preventive measure after different types of operative endoscopy procedures. Ninety-one treatments for active bleeding and 310 preventive applications were included. In 174 of 401 cases (43.4%), PuraStat was the primary treatment modality. Complete coverage was possible in 330 of 401 (82.3%) with difficulty in application in seven of 401 cases (1.7%). Hemostasis of active bleedings was achieved in 90 of 91 patients (98.9%). In 30-day follow-up 3.9% patients in whom PuraStat was used for prophylaxis had a bleeding event compared with 7.7% after hemostasis. No AEs related to the use of PuraStat were reported. Conclusions PuraStat is a safe and effective hemostat both for bleeding control and for bleeding prevention after different operative endoscopy procedures. Our results suggest that the possible applications for the use of PuraStat may be wider compared with current indications.

Pharmacokinetic and Bioequivalence Evaluation of Dihydroxyaluminum Aminoacetate, Heavy Magnesium Carbonate, and Aspirin Tablets in Healthy Chinese Subjects in the Fasting and Postprandial Conditions

Dihydroxyaluminum aminoacetate, heavy magnesium carbonate, and aspirin tablets is a new combined aspirin preparation, each containing aspirin (81 mg), dihydroxyaluminum aminoacetate (11 mg), and heavy magnesium carbonate (22 mg). This study was conducted to evaluate the pharmacokinetic (PK) and bioequivalence in healthy Chinese subjects. This randomized, open-label, single-dose, 2-sequence, and 2-period crossover study included 78 healthy volunteers (fasting, n = 36; postprandial, n = 42). Blood samples were collected for PK analysis. Aspirin and salicylic acid concentrations in human plasma were determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Safety and tolerability were monitored. There were no significant differences between the test and reference formulations in maximum plasma concentration, area under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC) from time 0 to time t, or AUC from time 0 to infinity. The 90% confidence intervals of the test and reference formulations of maximum plasma concentration, AUC from time 0 to time t, and AUC from time 0 to infinity were within the acceptable range (80%-125%) under fasting and postprandial conditions. All adverse events were mild and no serious adverse events were observed in the study. Both compounds were well tolerated in healthy Chinese volunteers.

Recent advances in the treatment of refractory gastrointestinal angiodysplasia

Gastrointestinal angiodysplasia (GIA) is a common, acquired, vascular abnormality of the digestive tract, and a frequent cause of bleeding. Refractory GIA criteria usually include recurrent bleeding, transfusions and/or repeat endoscopy. Pharmacological and interventional treatments have been the subject of recent high-quality publications. This review provides an overview of the latest updates on non-endoscopic management of refractory GIA. Aortic valve replacement has shown its efficacy in Heyde syndrome and should be considered if indicated. Anti-angiogenic drugs, such as Octreotide and Thalidomide, are efficient treatments of refractory GIA-related bleeding. Somatostatin analogs should, based on efficacy and tolerance profile, be considered first. In the future, a better understanding of the physiopathology of GIA might help develop new-targeted therapies.

Acquired Low Factor XIII Activity Is Associated with an Increased Need for Blood Transfusions in Patients with Gastrointestinal Bleedings

BACKGROUND

Factor XIII plays a key role within the coagulation cascade.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to investigate the relevance of factor XIII activity on the outcome of patients with gastrointestinal bleedings.

METHODS

In this retrospective, single-center study patients with gastrointestinal bleeding and measurement of factor XIII activity were included. The primary endpoint was the number of red blood cell transfusions in patients with reduced factor XIII activity (< 70%) compared to patients with normal activity. Additionally, the influence of factor XIII substitution was assessed.

RESULTS

Ninety-seven patients (median age: 64 [IQR 55, 77] years, 31 (32%) females) were included in the analysis. Fifty-six (58%) patients suffered from an upper gastrointestinal bleeding. 66 (68%) patients had a factor XIII activity < 70% and 24 (36%) of those received factor XIII substitution. Patients with reduced FXIII activity needed significantly more red blood cell transfusions than patients with normal activity (9 [5, 12] vs. 4 [1, 8], p < 0.001). Patients receiving factor XIII substitution showed a trend toward a decreased need for transfusions after substitution (0 [0, 5] vs. 3 [1, 6], p = 0.066). Factor XIII activity correlated negatively with the INR (rs = -0.24, p = 0.018) and positively with hemoglobin levels (rs = 0.28, p = 0.006) and with thrombocyte counts (rs = 0.30, p = 0.003).

CONCLUSION

The present study shows an association of factor XIII activity with the requirement of blood transfusions in patients with gastrointestinal bleedings and indicates a potential benefit of factor XIII substitution. Factor XIII activity seems to be dependent from the amount of blood loss and the global coagulation parameters.

Application of antithrombotic drugs and risk factor analysis in ICU patients with lower gastrointestinal bleeding from MIMIC-IV

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to assess the effects of antithrombotic therapy on the outcomes of lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) in ICU patients, focusing on in-hospital mortality, rebleeding, and length of hospital and ICU stays.

METHOD

This retrospective observational study utilized the MIMIC-IV 2.2 database, which includes 513 ICU patients with LGIB.

RESULT

The in-hospital mortality rate was 7.6%, and the rebleeding rate was 11.1%. The average Oakland risk score among the study population was 22.54. Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified the use of antiplatelet drugs as an independent protective factor for in-hospital mortality (HR = 0.37, 95% CI 0.15-0.90, p = 0.029). Patients on anticoagulants experienced significantly longer hospital stays (13.1 ± 12.2 days vs. 17.4 ± 12.6 days, p = 0.031) compared to those not using these drugs. Propensity score matching also supported these findings, indicating that antithrombotic therapy was associated with lower in-hospital mortality and longer hospital stays even after adjusting for factors like age, gender, and primary diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis using various statistical methods, including propensity score matching and multivariate regression, confirms that use of antithrombotic drugs in 2.3 days, particularly antiplatelets, are associated with a lower risk of in-hospital mortality. However, they may increase the risk of rebleeding and extend hospital stays in certain subgroups.

Localization and etiological stratification of non-neoplastic small bowel bleeding via CT imaging: a 10-year study

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study is to assess the diagnostic efficacy of contrast-enhanced CT scans for small bowel bleeding.

METHODS

This retrospective study evaluated patients diagnosed with non-neoplastic small intestinal bleeding (including duodenum) who underwent abdominal CT at our institution from December 2013 to March 2023. Patients were categorized into diverticulum and non-diverticulum groups based on the cause of bleeding. Active bleeding was defined on the CT images as extravasation of contrast material in the intestinal lumen during the arterial phase and/or progressive accumulation of contrast material during the venous phase. We have documented the original report (extracted from the medical record system and additional consultation opinions from senior radiologists), including the presence of active bleeding and its potential bleeding location. Furthermore, two radiologists reassessed the CT images, seeking consensus on the diagnosis between them.

RESULTS

The study included 165 patients, predominantly male, with a median age of 30 years. Active bleeding was identified in 48.3% of patients. Notably, all identified bleeding diverticula in the diverticulum group exhibited cul-de-sac termination. Among the identified causes of bleeding, Crohn's disease was most prevalent (46.7%, N of causes = 64). Significant differences were observed in the diagnostic methods between the diverticulum and non-diverticulum groups, with surgery predominantly applied in the diverticulum group, and endoscopy in the non-diverticulum group (n = 49 vs n = 15, p = 0.001). Contrast agent extravasation was significantly higher in the diverticulum group (n = 54 vs n = 16, p = 0.001), and Meckel's diverticulum cases appearing tubular were significantly higher than in other diverticulum cases (n = 25 vs n = 3, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

CT allows for a higher detection rate of diverticular bleeding, even if asymptomatic, guiding classification into multiple potentially clinically relevant categories.

CRITICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

Contrast-enhanced CT imaging is effective in determining the location and cause of non-neoplastic small bowel bleeding, especially diverticular bleeding. Therefore, the use of enhanced CT should be prioritized in the diagnosis and management of small bowel bleeding.

KEY POINTS

CT has potential value in the diagnosis of small bowel bleeding. CT imaging suggests possible surgical intervention for active bleeding detection. CT diagnoses and localizes small bowel bleeding, aiding in treatment and prioritizing in guidelines.

Emergency medicine updates: Lower gastrointestinal bleeding

INTRODUCTION

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is a condition commonly seen in the emergency department. Therefore, it is important for emergency medicine clinicians to be aware of the current evidence regarding the diagnosis and management of this disease.

OBJECTIVE

This paper evaluates key evidence-based updates concerning LGIB for the emergency clinician.

DISCUSSION

LGIB is most commonly due to diverticulosis or anorectal disease, though there are a variety of etiologies. The majority of cases resolve spontaneously, but patients can have severe bleeding resulting in hemodynamic instability. Initial evaluation should focus on patient hemodynamics, the severity of bleeding, and differentiating upper gastrointestinal bleeding from LGIB. Factors associated with LGIB include prior history of LGIB, age over 50 years, and presence of blood clots per rectum. Computed tomography angiography is the imaging modality of choice in those with severe bleeding to diagnose the source of bleeding and guide management when embolization is indicated. Among stable patients without severe bleeding, colonoscopy is the recommended modality for diagnosis and management. A transfusion threshold of 7 g/dL hemoglobin is recommended based on recent data and guidelines (8 g/dL in those with myocardial ischemia), though patients with severe bleeding and hemodynamic instability should undergo emergent transfusion. Anticoagulation reversal may be necessary. If bleeding does not resolve, embolization or endoscopic therapies are necessary. There are several risk scores that can predict the risk of adverse outcomes; however, these scores should not replace clinical judgment in determining patient disposition.

CONCLUSIONS

An understanding of literature updates can improve the care of patients with LGIB.

Colorectal polypectomy and endoscopic mucosal resection: European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE) Guideline - Update 2024

1:  ESGE recommends cold snare polypectomy (CSP), to include a clear margin of normal tissue (1-2 mm) surrounding the polyp, for the removal of diminutive polyps (≤ 5 mm).Strong recommendation, high quality of evidence. 2:  ESGE recommends against the use of cold biopsy forceps excision because of its high rate of incomplete resection.Strong recommendation, moderate quality of evidence. 3:  ESGE recommends CSP, to include a clear margin of normal tissue (1-2 mm) surrounding the polyp, for the removal of small polyps (6-9 mm).Strong recommendation, high quality of evidence. 4:  ESGE recommends hot snare polypectomy for the removal of nonpedunculated adenomatous polyps of 10-19 mm in size.Strong recommendation, high quality of evidence. 5:  ESGE recommends conventional (diathermy-based) endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) for large (≥ 20 mm) nonpedunculated adenomatous polyps (LNPCPs).Strong recommendation, high quality of evidence. 6:  ESGE suggests that underwater EMR can be considered an alternative to conventional hot EMR for the treatment of adenomatous LNPCPs.Weak recommendation, moderate quality of evidence. 7:  Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) may also be suggested as an alternative for removal of LNPCPs of ≥ 20 mm in selected cases and in high-volume centers.Weak recommendation, low quality evidence. 8:  ESGE recommends that, after piecemeal EMR of LNPCPs by hot snare, the resection margins should be treated by thermal ablation using snare-tip soft coagulation to prevent adenoma recurrence.Strong recommendation, high quality of evidence. 9:  ESGE recommends (piecemeal) cold snare polypectomy or cold EMR for SSLs of all sizes without suspected dysplasia.Strong recommendation, moderate quality of evidence. 10:  ESGE recommends prophylactic endoscopic clip closure of the mucosal defect after EMR of LNPCPs in the right colon to reduce to reduce the risk of delayed bleeding.Strong recommendation, high quality of evidence. 11:  ESGE recommends that en bloc resection techniques, such as en bloc EMR, ESD, endoscopic intermuscular dissection, endoscopic full-thickness resection, or surgery should be the techniques of choice in cases with suspected superficial invasive carcinoma, which otherwise cannot be removed en bloc by standard polypectomy or EMR.Strong recommendation, moderate quality of evidence.

Usefulness of a long hood for the detection of bleeding sites in colonic diverticular hemorrhage: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND AND AIM

The use of a hood at the tip of a colonoscope enables aspiration, inversion of the diverticulum, and observation of the inside of the diverticulum. In most previous studies, a short hood was used; however, observation of the diverticulum is often inadequate. Long food is promising by previous research, but it was a retrospective study using propensity matching and has some limitations. We compared the identification rate of stigmata of recent hemorrhage (SRH) between the long and standard hoods in cases of suspected colonic diverticular hemorrhage (CDH) to confirm the usefulness of long hood by prospective randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

Eighty patients (42 in the long hood group [L group] and 38 in the short hood group [S group]) who visited the Saitama Medical University Hospital and Tokai University Hachioji Hospital between December 2018 and July 2021 with a chief complaint of bloody stool and suspected CDH, based on the clinical course and imaging studies, were included. Patients were randomly assigned to the L or S group.

RESULTS

Regarding patient background, age was significantly higher in the L group; however, no significant differences were found in medical history or history of antithrombotic medication or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug use. Identification rate of SRH was significantly higher in the L group (58.5%, 24/42 patients) than in the S group (26.3%, 10/38 patients) (P < 0.05). All patients were treated using the clip method, and the rate of rebleeding within 1 month was not significantly different between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

A long hood was more useful compared with a short hood in identifying SRH of CDH (UMIN000034603).

Extravasated contrast volumetric assessment on computed tomography angiography in gastrointestinal bleeding: A useful predictor of positive angiographic findings

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is a severe and potentially life-threatening condition, especially in cases of delayed treatment. Computed tomography angiography (CTA) plays a pivotal role in the early identification of upper and lower GIB and in the prompt treatment of the haemorrhage.

AIM

To determine whether a volumetric estimation of the extravasated contrast at CTA in GIB may be a predictor of subsequent positive angiographic findings.

METHODS

In this retrospective single-centre study, 35 patients (22 men; median age 69 years; range 16-92 years) admitted to our institution for active GIB detected at CTA and further submitted to catheter angiography between January 2018 and February 2022 were enrolled. Twenty-three (65.7%) patients underwent endoscopy before CTA. Bleeding volumetry was evaluated in both arterial and venous phases via a semi-automated dedicated software. Bleeding rate was obtained from volume change between the two phases and standardised for unit time. Patients were divided into two groups, according to the angiographic signs and their concordance with CTA.

RESULTS

Upper bleeding accounted for 42.9% and lower GIB for 57.1%. Mean haemoglobin value at the admission was 7.7 g/dL. A concordance between positive CTA and direct angiographic bleeding signs was found in 19 (54.3%) cases. Despite no significant differences in terms of bleeding volume in the arterial phase (0.55 mL vs 0.33 mL, P = 0.35), a statistically significant volume increase in the venous phase was identified in the group of patients with positive angiography (2.06 mL vs 0.9 mL, P = 0.02). In the latter patient group, a significant increase in bleeding rate was also detected (2.18 mL/min vs 0.19 mL/min, P = 0.02).

CONCLUSION

In GIB of any origin, extravasated contrast volumetric analysis at CTA could be a predictor of positive angiography and may help in avoiding further unnecessary procedures.

Appendiceal bleeding caused by vascular malformation: A case report

BACKGROUND

Acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is a common occurrence in clinical practice. However, appendiceal bleeding is an extremely rare condition that can easily be overlooked and misdiagnosed. The preoperative detection of appendiceal bleeding often poses challenges due to the lack of related guidelines and consensus, resulting in controversial treatment approaches.

CASE SUMMARY

We presented a case of a 33-year-old female who complained of hematochezia that had lasted for 1 d. Colonoscopy revealed continuous bleeding in the appendiceal orifice. A laparoscopic appendectomy was performed immediately, and a pulsating blood vessel was observed in the mesangium of the appendix, accordingly, active bleeding into the appendicular lumen was considered. Pathological examination revealed numerous hyperplastic vessels in the appendiceal mucosa and dilated capillary vessels.

CONCLUSION

The preoperative detection of appendiceal bleeding is often challenging, colonoscopy is extremely important, bowel preparation is not routinely recommended for patients with acute LGIB or only low-dose bowel preparation is recommended. Laparoscopic appendectomy is the most appropriate treatment for appendiceal bleeding.

Acute upper and lower gastrointestinal bleeding management in older people taking or not taking anticoagulants: a literature review

Acute upper and lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding may be a potentially life-threatening event that requires prompt recognition and an early effective management, being responsible for a considerable number of hospital admissions. Methods. We perform a clinical review to summarize the recent international guidelines, helping the physician in clinical practice. Older people are a vulnerable subgroup of patients more prone to developing GI bleeding because of several comorbidities and polypharmacy, especially related to an increased use of antiplatelet and anticoagulant drugs. In addition, older patients may have higher peri-procedural risk that should be evaluated. The recent introduction of reversal strategies may help the management of GI bleeding in this subgroup of patients. In this review, we aimed to (1) summarize the epidemiology and risk factors for upper and lower GI bleeding, (2) describe treatment options with a focus on pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of different proton pump inhibitors, and (3) provide an overview of the clinical management with flowcharts for risk stratification and treatment. In conclusion, GI is common in older patients and an early effective management may be helpful in the reduction of several complications.

Efficacy of ferric carboxymaltose on haemoglobin response among older patients with gastrointestinal bleeding: a randomised clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Acute gastrointestinal bleeding (AGIB) is common in older patients but the use of iron in this context remains understudied.

AIMS

This study aimed to evaluate prospectively the efficacy of ferric carboxymaltose to treat anaemia in older patients after AGIB.

METHODS

This randomised double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in 10 French centres. Eligible patients were 65 years or more, had controlled upper or lower gastrointestinal bleeding and a haemoglobin level of 9-11 g/dl. Patients were randomly assigned, in a 1:1 ratio, to receive either one intravenous iron injection of ferric carboxymaltose or one injection of saline solution. The primary endpoint was the difference in haemoglobin level between day 0 and day 42. Secondary endpoints were treatment-emergent adverse events, serious adverse events, rehospitalisation and improvement of quality of life (QOL) at day 180.

RESULTS

From January 2013 to January 2017, 59 patients were included. The median age of patients was 81.9 [75.8, 87.3] years. At day 42, a significant difference in haemoglobin level increase was observed (2.49 g/dl in the ferric carboxymaltose group vs. 1.56 g/dl in the placebo group, P = 0.02). At day 180, QOL, measured on European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire-Core 30, improved by 10.5 points in the ferric carboxymaltose group and by 8.2 points in the placebo group (P = 0.56). Rates of adverse events and rehospitalisation were similar in the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous iron seems safe and effective to treat anaemia in older patients after AGIB and should be considered as a standard-of-care treatment. ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT01690585).

Value of multidetector computed tomography angiography in severe non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding: a retrospective study in a referral bleeding unit

BACKGROUND

Non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding is a common gastroenterological emergency associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is currently recommended as the gold standard modality for both diagnosis and treatment. As historically played a limited role in the diagnosis of acute non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding, multidetector-row computed tomography angiography is emerging as a promising tool in the diagnosis of non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding, especially for severe cases. However, to date, evidence concerning the role of multidetector-row computed tomography angiography in the non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding diagnosis is still lacking.

AIM

The purpose of this study was to retrospectively investigate the diagnostic performance of emergent multidetector-row computed tomography angiography performed prior to any diagnostic modality or following urgent upper endoscopy to identify the status, the site, and the underlying etiology of severe non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

METHODS

Institutional databases were reviewed in order to identify severe acute non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding patients who were admitted to our bleeding unit and were referred for emergent multidetector-row computed tomography angiography prior to any hemostatic treatment (< 3 h) or following (< 3 h) endoscopy, between December 2019 and October 2022. The study aim was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of multidetector-row computed tomography angiography to detect the status, the site, and the etiology of severe non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding with endoscopy, digital subtraction angiography, surgery, pathology, or a combination of them as reference standards.

RESULTS

A total of 68 patients (38 men, median age 69 years [range 25-96]) were enrolled. The overall multidetector-row computed tomography angiography sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy to diagnose bleeding status were 77.8% (95% CI: 65.5-87.3), 40% (95% CI: 5.3-85.3), and 75% (95% CI: 63.0-84.7), respectively. Finally, the overall multidetector-row computed tomography angiography sensitivity to identify the bleeding site and the bleeding etiology were 92.4% (95% CI: 83.2-97.5) and 79% (95% CI: 66.8-88.3), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Although esophagogastroduodenoscopy is the mainstay in the diagnosis and treatment of most non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding cases, multidetector-row computed tomography angiography seems to be a feasible and effective modality in detecting the site, the status, and the etiology of severe acute non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding. It may play a crucial role in the management of selected cases of non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding, especially those clinically severe and/or secondary to rare and extraordinary rare sources, effectively guiding timing and type of treatment. However, further large prospective studies are needed to clarify the role of multidetector-row computed tomography angiography in the diagnostic process of acute non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

Argon Plasma Coagulation as Treatment for Anal Condylomas: A Narrative Review

OBJECTIVES

Anal condylomas are a manifestation of anal human papillomavirus infection and can be associated with precancerous lesions and squamous cell carcinomas. Several methods have been described for treatment, including argon plasma coagulation. A narrative review of the evidence published on this topic was conducted.

METHODS

A search was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases.

RESULTS

Five studies reported on anal/perianal condyloma treatment with argon plasma coagulation. In 3 of these studies, there was a comparison with other treatment methods (addition of imiquimod, electrofulguration, and electrocautery, respectively). Argon plasma coagulation settings varied between studies. This type of treatment was effective for ablation. Recurrence rates and follow-up times varied largely between studies. No major complications, such as pain, scarring, sexual dysfunction, or severe bleeding were described.

CONCLUSION

Studies indicate that argon plasma coagulation is an effective and safe therapy for anal and perianal condylomas.

High risk stigmata and treatment strategy for acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding: a nationwide study in Japan

BACKGROUND

 The rebleeding risks and outcomes of endoscopic treatment for acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (ALGIB) may differ depending on the bleeding location, type, and etiology of stigmata of recent hemorrhage (SRH) but have yet to be fully investigated. We aimed to identify high risk endoscopic SRH and to propose an optimal endoscopic treatment strategy.

METHODS

 We retrospectively analyzed 2699 ALGIB patients with SRH at 49 hospitals (CODE BLUE-J Study), of whom 88.6 % received endoscopic treatment.

RESULTS

 30-day rebleeding rates of untreated SRH significantly differed among locations (left colon 15.5 % vs. right colon 28.6 %) and etiologies (diverticular bleeding 27.5 % vs. others [e. g. ulcerative lesions or angioectasia] 8.9 %), but not among bleeding types. Endoscopic treatment reduced the overall rebleeding rate (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 0.69; 95 %CI 0.49-0.98), and the treatment effect was significant in right-colon SRH (AOR 0.46; 95 %CI 0.29-0.72) but not in left-colon SRH. The effect was observed in both active and nonactive types, but was not statistically significant. Moreover, the effect was significant for diverticular bleeding (AOR 0.60; 95 %CI 0.41-0.88) but not for other diseases. When focusing on treatment type, the effectiveness was not significantly different between clipping and other modalities for most SRH, whereas ligation was significantly more effective than clipping in right-colon diverticular bleeding.

CONCLUSIONS

 A population-level endoscopy dataset allowed us to identify high risk endoscopic SRH and propose a simple endoscopic treatment strategy for ALGIB. Unlike upper gastrointestinal bleeding, the rebleeding risks for ALGIB depend on colonic location, bleeding etiology, and treatment modality.

Comparison of Risk Scores for Predicting Adverse Outcomes in Acute Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding

PURPOSE

Acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (ALGIB) is a common emergency in gastroenterology. Currently, there is insufficient information to predict adverse outcomes in patients with acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding. Our study is aimed at comparing the effectiveness of the clinical risk scores currently utilized and their ability to predict significant outcomes in lower gastrointestinal bleeding.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective observational study of patients who were admitted to ALGIB and underwent colonoscopy or angiography at a single center between January 2018 and December 2022. Adverse outcomes associated with ALGIB included rebleeding, blood transfusion, hemostatic interventions, and in-hospital death. We calculated six risk scores at admission (Oakland, Birmingham, SHA2PE, Ramaekers, SALGIB, and CNUH-5). We measured the accuracy of these scores using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and compared them with DeLong's test.

RESULTS

123 patients with confirmed LGIB (aged 65 years, 55-75) were finally included. The most common diagnoses were colorectal cancer (25%) and hemorrhoids (14%). All scores demonstrated sufficient and comparable effectiveness for hemostatic intervention but no discrimination for rebleeding. The Oakland and SALGIB scores were superior to the other scores in predicting blood transfusion (AUC: 0.97 and 0.95, respectively; p = 0.208) and any adverse outcomes (AUC: 0.78 and 0.78, respectively; p = 0.854).

CONCLUSIONS

The Oakland and SALGIB scores outperform the other scores in predicting the requirement for blood transfusion in ALGIB patients, but no single prediction tool had the best ability across all outcomes. Novel risk stratification scores with higher performance are needed for better risk stratification in ALGIB.

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.

Review article: Advances in the management of lower gastrointestinal bleeding

BACKGROUND

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is a common emergency with substantial associated morbidity and mortality. Elective colonoscopy plays an essential role in management, with an even more important role for radiology in the acute setting. Recent advances in the management of patients with LGIB warrant review as the management has recently evolved.

AIMS

To provide a comprehensive and updated overview of advances in the approach to patients with LGIB METHODS: We performed a comprehensive literature search to examine the current data for this narrative review supplemented by expert opinion.

RESULTS

The incidence of LGIB is increasing worldwide, partly related to an ageing population and the increasing use of antithrombotics. Diverticulosis continues to be the most common aetiology of LGIB. Pre-endoscopic risk stratification tools, especially the Oakland score, can aid appropriate patient triage. Adequate resuscitation continues to form the basis of management, while appropriate management of antithrombotics is crucial to balance the risk of worsening bleeding against increased cardiovascular risk. Radiological imaging plays an essential role in the diagnosis and treatment of acute LGIB, especially among unstable patients. Colonoscopy remains the gold-standard test for the elective management of stable patients.

CONCLUSIONS

The management of LGIB has evolved significantly in recent years, with a shift towards radiological interventions for unstable patients while reserving elective colonoscopy for stable patients. A multidisciplinary approach is essential to optimise the outcomes of patients with LGIB.

External Validation of the Oakland Score for Acute Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Introduction Acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) presents challenges in emergency settings, with incidence influenced by demographic shifts and anticoagulant usage. The Oakland score aids in risk stratification for safe discharge based on clinical and laboratory parameters. However, external validation remains limited. Methods This study validated the Oakland score in a French cohort of patients with acute LGIB and assessed the discriminatory value of the score using the area under the curve (AUC) and then its sensitivity and specificity. Results A retrospective examination of 343 patient records that satisfied the inclusion criteria showed a median score of 14 points and good discriminatory capacity (area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve: 0.83). There was low sensitivity (20.9%) for safe discharge but good specificity (98.5%) when using an 8-point threshold. With a 9-point threshold, the sensitivity was increased to 36.5%, while the specificity remained at 95%. Conclusion Identifying low-risk LGIB patients is accomplished without sacrificing sensitivity by increasing the Oakland score threshold to 9 points. This modification improves patient safety and resource allocation in the emergency room and has been verified by other large series. For wider implementation, additional validation and long-term outcome evaluations are required.