Recent advances in endovascular techniques for management of acute nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding

Middle Rectal Artery Pseudoaneurysm: A Case of Massive Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding Managed With Coil Embolization

Pseudoaneurysms of the middle rectal artery are rare. When encountered, these have the potential for significant morbidity and mortality due to bleeding and potential rupture. Endovascular embolization is a feasible option in the management of these pseudoaneurysms. The present report describes a case of a 43-year-old male presenting with hemorrhagic shock secondary to lower gastrointestinal bleeding one day after undergoing excision of an external perineal condyloma, incision and drainage of a perirectal abscess, and biopsy of a perianal mass. Angiographic imaging revealed a right middle rectal artery pseudoaneurysm. Selective embolization of the right middle rectal artery and bilateral superior rectal arteries was successfully performed. At the two-week post-embolization follow-up, hemoglobin was stable, and the patient reported normal bowel movements with no episodes of bleeding per rectum.

Spontaneous retroperitoneal hematoma treated with transarterial embolization: a systematic review and metanalysis

PURPOSE

The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the safety, technical, and clinical effectiveness of percutaneous Transarterial Embolization (TAE) in treating spontaneous retroperitoneal hematomas as well as assess treatment outcomes in patients who underwent target or empirical embolization.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Through the PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar databases, an extensive search was performed in the fields of spontaneous retroperitoneal hematomas treated with transcatheter arterial embolization. We collected pooled data on 141 patients from 6 separate articles selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

RESULTS

Technical success rate was 100% in all six studies, for both targeted and empirical embolization. The clinical success rate varied from 56.3 to 89.5%. The total number of complications related to the embolization procedure was 10 events out of 116 procedures analyzed. Empirical or empirical embolization was performed in three studies, where the source of active bleeding was not evident during DSA. A meta-analysis compared the rebleeding rates between targeted and empirical embolization groups. The odds ratio from pooled data from the three assessed studies (72 patients) showed no significant difference in rebleeding rates after empirical TAE compared with targeted TAE.

CONCLUSIONS

TAE is a safe, effective, and potentially life-saving procedure for the treatment of life-threatening spontaneous retroperitoneal hematomas. Empirical and targeted TAE procedures demonstrate a relatively low risk of complications, compared to the high technical and relatively high clinical success rates.

Spontaneous Abdominal Wall Hematoma Treated with Percutaneous Transarterial Embolization: Diagnostic Findings, Procedural Outcome, and Efficacy-A Multicenter Study

Endovascular management of abdominal wall hematomas (AWHs) is now the primary treatment option in hemodynamically stable patients, and it is often preferred to surgical interventions. The purpose of this multicentric study was to assess the safety, technical, and clinical success of percutaneous transarterial embolization (PTAE) of spontaneous AWHs to evaluate the efficacy of blind or empiric embolization compared to targeted embolization and to compare the outcome of the endovascular treatment approach in patients affected by COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients. We retrospectively enrolled 112 patients with spontaneous AWHs who underwent PTAE, focusing on signs of bleeding at pre-procedural CTA and DSA. Patients were separated into two groups depending on whether a blind or targeted embolization approach was used. We also divided patients into COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 groups. The mean age of the study population was 68.6 ± 15.8 years. CTA and DSA revealed signs of active bleeding in 99 and 88 patients, respectively. In 21 patients, blind embolization was performed. The overall technical success rate was 99%. Clinical success was obtained in 96 patients (86%), while 16 (14%) re-bled within 96 h. One patient reported a major peri-procedural complication. The comparison between blind and targeted embolization approaches showed no statistically significant differences in the characteristics of groups and technical and clinical success rates. No significant differences were found in the procedural outcome between COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 groups. Our study confirmed that PTAE is effective for treating spontaneous AWHs, even in COVID-19 patients. It suggests that the efficacy and safety of blind embolization are comparable to targeted embolization.

Patient and endoscopic characteristics and clinical outcomes in subjects with non-variceal GI bleeding referred for transarterial embolization: a single-center experience

PURPOSE

Management of massive non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NV-UGIB) can be challenging. Transarterial Embolization (TAE) is often the first therapeutic approach when endoscopic therapy fails before surgery. The purpose of this study is to analyze the technical success, and outcome for our patients with an NV-UGIB referred for TAE.

METHOD

This retrospective analysis included 74 consecutive patients with an NV-UGIB in whom TAE was performed after endoscopic treatment between February 2016 to May 2019 at Prisma Health-Upstate Greenville Memorial Hospital.

RESULTS

TAE was 98.7% technically successful, with a failure due to severe celiac stenosis, and 85.1% clinically successful. Most TAEs were performed empirically due to lack of extravasation yet were clinically as effective as targeted TAE. We noted a 30-day rebleeding rate and mortality rate of 14.8% and 13.5%, respectively. No complications were reported during the angiographic procedure. Subjects with coagulopathy had more rebleeding (45.5% vs. 17.5%, p = 0.040), and mortality (30% vs 7.4%, p = 0.012). Mortality was also associated with the number of transfused packed blood cells (13.6 ± 8.4 vs. 6.1 ± 5.4, p = 0.020) units and hypotension on admission (27.8% vs. 8.9%, p = 0.043). Interestingly, subjects that underwent left gastric artery (LGA) compared to non-LGA embolization had a higher rebleeding rate of (37.5% vs. 8.6%, p = 0.004) and a greater mortality rate of (37.5% vs. 6.9%, p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

TAE is clinically effective in the presence or absence of contrast extravasation to treat uncontrolled or high-risk NV-UGIB. Less effective clinical outcomes regarding TAE targeting the LGA warrant further investigation.

Hepatic arterial haemorrhage caused by duodenal ulcer

A man in his late 60s with prior Hartman's procedure underwent colostomy takedown and complex ventral hernia repair. He subsequently developed gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding from a duodenal bulb ulcer. Despite five endoscopic procedures aimed at achieving haemostasis, including placement of an over-the-scope clip, and four endovascular embolisations (inferior and superior pancreaticoduodenal, right gastroepiploic and gastroduodenal arteries), the patient continued to experience episodic, haemodynamically significant bleeding. He eventually required emergency exploratory laparotomy, where the proper hepatic artery was identified as the source (a previously unreported phenomenon). He underwent antrectomy and proper hepatic artery ligation. This case highlights the need to interrogate all portions of the hepatic vasculature in the treatment of refractory GI bleeding.

Spontaneous Retroperitoneal Hematoma Treated with Percutaneous Transarterial Embolization in COVID-19 Era: Diagnostic Findings and Procedural Outcome

(1) Background: Spontaneous retroperitoneal hematomas are a relatively common occurrence in hospitalized patients with COVID-19 related pneumonia, and endovascular treatment of trans-arterial embolization (TAE) may be a life-saving procedure after failure of medical and supportive therapy. The aim of our study was to evaluate spontaneous retroperitoneal hematomas in the COVID-19 era, focusing on their imaging features at CTA and DSA and on the safety, as well as technical and clinical success, of TAE, comparing patients affected by COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 patients. (2) Materials and Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 24 patients with spontaneous retroperitoneal hematoma who underwent TAE; of these, 10 were hospitalized for COVID-19-related pneumonia, while the other 14 were without COVID-19 infection. We evaluated the demographic data, hemoglobin values before and after the procedure, preprocedural aPTT, preprocedural INR, diagnostic and interventional imaging findings, procedural outcome (technical success) and survival periprocedural (clinical success), and major and minor complications. (3) Results: The mean age of the study population was 72.7 ± 11.2 years. CTA revealed signs of active bleeding in 20 patients (83%). DSA showed signs of active bleeding in 20 patients (83%). In four patients (17%), blind embolization was performed. The overall technical success rate was 100%. Clinical success was achieved in 17 patients (71%), while seven patients (29%) rebled within 96 h, and all of them were retreated. No major periprocedural complication was reported. The comparison between the two groups did not show statistically significant differences for gender, mean age, mean pre- and postprocedural hemoglobin, aPTT and INR, mean hematoma volume (cm3), or mean delay between CT and DSA. Active bleeding at CTA was detected in 90% of COVID-19 patients and 79% of non-COVID-19 patients (p = 0.61). At DSA, active bleeding was assessed in eight out of 10 (80%) patients in the COVID-19 group and 12 out of 14 (86%) patients in the non-COVID-19 group (p = 1). Technical success was obtained in 100% of patients in both groups. Clinical success rates were 70% for COVID-19 group and 71% for the non-COVID-19 group. We found no statistical significance between the clinical success rates of retroperitoneal spontaneous hematoma embolization in patients with or without SARS-CoV-2 infection. (4) Conclusions: We suggest that, similar to what has been reported in other studies in non-COVID-19 patients, TAE should be considered an important safe, effective, and potentially life-saving option for the management and the treatment of patients affected by COVID-19 who present with spontaneous retroperitoneal hematoma and who could not benefit from conservative treatment.

Efficacy of Percutaneous Transarterial Embolization in Patients with Spontaneous Abdominal Wall Hematoma and Comparison between Blind and Targeted Embolization Approaches

Background: Endovascular treatment of abdominal wall hematomas (AWHs) has been increasingly used when conservative treatments were not sufficiently effective, and it is often preferred to surgical interventions. The aim of our study was to evaluate the safety and technical and clinical success of percutaneous transarterial treatment of AWH and to evaluate the efficacy of blind embolization compared to targeted embolization. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 43 patients (23 men and 20 females) with spontaneous AWH who underwent digital subtraction angiography (DSA) and embolization, focusing on the presence of signs of bleeding at pre-procedural CT-Angiography (CTA) and at DSA. Furthermore, we divided patients into two groups depending on blind or targeted embolization approaches. Results: The mean age of the study population was 71 ± 12 years. CTA revealed signs of active bleeding in 31 patients (72%). DSA showed signs of active bleeding in 34 patients (79%). In nine patients (21%), blind embolization was performed. The overall technical success rate was 100%. Clinical success was achieved in 33 patients (77%), while 10 patients (23%) rebled within 96 h, and all of them were re-treated. No major peri-procedural complication was reported. The comparison between blind and targeted embolization showed no statistically significant differences for characteristics of groups and for clinical success rates (78% and 77%, respectively, −p = 0.71). The technical success was 100% in both groups. Conclusions: Our study confirms that transarterial embolization is a safe and effective option for the treatment of spontaneous AWHs, and it suggests that the efficacy and safety of blind embolization is comparable to non-blind.

Prophylactic transcatheter angiographic embolization reduces Forrest IIa ulcer rebleeding: A retrospective study

The application of transcatheter angiographic embolization (TAE) is controversial in the treatment of ulcer bleeding. This study aims to determine rebleeding risk factors and evaluate the efficacy of prophylactic TAE (p-TAE) following endoscopic hemostasis in rebleeding prevention of Forrest lla ulcers.The medical records of Forrest lla ulcer patients who underwent endoscopic hemostasis (E group) and endoscopic hemostasis plus p-TAE (E + p-TAE group) in West China Hospital from May 2009 to May 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Baseline characteristics, clinical efficacy, and rebleeding risk factors were analyzed.As a result, a total of 102 patients were included, with 75 and 27 patients in E and E + p-TAE group, respectively. Most of the baseline data in E and E + p-TAE group were similar except for the proportion of protruded non-bleeding visible vessel (NBVV) (E group vs E + p-TAE group, 50.7% vs 74.1%, P = .035). The rebleeding rate of E + p-TAE group (3.7%) was significantly lower than E group (24.0%) (P = .02). The protruded NBVV (OR: 6.896, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.532-30.642, P = .01) and employment of p-TAE (OR: 0.038, 95% CI: 0.003-0.448, P = .009) were identified as independent risk factors for Forrest IIa ulcer rebleeding. Additionally, log-rank test indicated the rebleeding occurrence was greatly reduced by p-TAE in patients with protruded NBVVs (P = .006).In conclusion, the protruded NBVV and employment of p-TAE were the independent risk factors tightly associated with rebleeding of Forrest IIa ulcer. P-TAE following endoscopic hemostasis could effectively prevent Forrest IIa ulcer from rebleeding.

The Promise of Percutaneous Transhepatic Variceal Embolization for Both Gastroesophageal and Ectopic Varices—An Australian Case Series

Purpose This article aims to report Australian experience of percutaneous transhepatic embolization of gastroesophageal and ectopic varices.

Method Eight consecutive patients (mean age 61.8 years, 7 men) who had undergone percutaneous transhepatic variceal embolization (PTVE) for variceal bleeding between October 2013 and February 2020 were analyzed. All patients were admitted from the emergency department. The following embolic materials were used—coils, Onyx 18 (Medtronic), and n-butyl cyanoacrylate plus lipiodol.

Results Post-PTVE, all eight patients demonstrated clinical and radiological improvement in the immediate postprocedure period (< 24 hours). Patients were followed for a mean of 44 ± 24 days postprocedure. Two patients were lost to follow-up. The postprocedure complications included rebleeding (n = 1), hepatic encephalopathy (n = 1), hemoperitoneum (n = 1), ileus (n = 1), and abdominal pain (n = 3).

Conclusion PTVE is an effective treatment option for patients with uncontrolled variceal bleeding (ectopic as well as gastroesophageal) especially when the traditional therapies such as transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts, endoscopic variceal ligation, and balloon-occluded retrograde transvenous obliteration are contraindicated or ineffective.

Angiography and transcatheter arterial embolization for non-variceal gastrointestinal bleeding

BACKGROUND AND GOALS

Acute non-variceal gastrointestinal bleeding (NVGIB) is one of the most common medical emergencies, leading to significant morbidity and mortality without proper management. This study was to analyze the causes of NVGIB and to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and feasibility of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) for the treatment of NVGIB.

STUDY

From November 2012 to October 2018, 158 patients with NVGIB underwent digital subtraction angiography, and TAE was performed for confirmed gastrointestinal bleeding. Patient characteristics, cause of bleeding, angiographic findings, technical and clinical success rates, complication rates, and outcomes were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Bleeding was confirmed in 71.5% (113/158) of performed angiographies, and 68 patients had visible contrast extravasation on angiography, with the other 45 patients having indirect signs of bleeding. Among the 113 patients with confirmed gastrointestinal bleeding, TAE was technically successful in 111 patients (98.2%). The mean procedure time required for TAE was 116 ± 44 min (ranging from 50 to 225 min). The primary total clinical success rate of TAE was 84.7% (94/111). The primary clinical success rates of TAE for vascular abnormality, neoplastic disease, and iatrogenic condition were 84.5% (49/58), 84.1% (37/44), and 88.9% (8/9), respectively. Intestinal necrosis and perforation were found in two patients after TAE.

CONCLUSIONS

The causes of NVGIB are complex and the onset, location, risk, and clinical presentations are variable. NVGIB can be generally divided into three types: vascular abnormality, neoplastic disease, and iatrogenic condition. TAE is a safe, effective, and fast procedure in the management of gastrointestinal bleeding.

Endoscopic hemostasis followed by preventive transarterial embolization in high-risk patients with bleeding peptic ulcer: 5-year experience

Background

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) due to peptic ulcer disease is one of the leading causes of death in patients with non-variceal bleeding, resulting in up to 10% mortality rate, and the patient group at high risk of rebleeding (Forrest IA, IB, and IIA) often requires additional therapy after endoscopic hemostasis. Preventive transarterial embolization (P-TAE) after endoscopic hemostasis was introduced in our institution in 2014. The aim of the study is an assessment of the intermediate results of P-TAE following primary endoscopic hemostasis in patients with serious comorbid conditions and high risk of rebleeding.

Methods

During the period from 2014 to 2018, a total of 399 patients referred to our institution with a bleeding peptic ulcer, classified as type Forrest IA, IB, or IIA with the Rockall score ≥ 5, after endoscopic hemostasis was prospectively included in two groups—P-TAE group and control group, where endoscopy alone (EA) was performed. The P-TAE patients underwent flow-reducing left gastric artery or gastroduodenal artery embolization according to the ulcer type. The rebleeding rate, complications, frequency of surgical interventions, transfused packed red blood cells (PRBC), amount of fresh frozen plasma (FFP), and mortality rate were analyzed.

Results

From 738 patients with a bleeding peptic ulcer, 399 were at high risk for rebleeding after endoscopic hemostasis. From this cohort, 58 patients underwent P-TAE, and 341 were allocated to the EA. A significantly lower rebleeding rate was observed in the P-TAE group, 3.4% vs. 16.2% in the EA group; p = 0.005. The need for surgical intervention reached 10.3% vs. 20.6% in the P-TAE and EA groups accordingly; p = 0.065. Patients that underwent P-TAE required less FFP, 1.3 unit vs. 2.6 units in EA; p = 0.0001. The mortality rate was similar in groups with a tendency to decrease in the P-TAE group, 5.7% vs. 8.5% in EA; p = 0.417.

Conclusion

P-TAE is a feasible and safe procedure, and it may reduce the rebleeding rate and the need for surgical intervention in patients with a bleeding peptic ulcer when the rebleeding risk remains high after primary endoscopic hemostasis.

Management of acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding: an update for the general physician

Acute upper gastrointestinal bleed (AUGIB) is one of the most common medical emergencies in the UK, with roughly one presentation every 6 min. Despite advances in therapeutics and endoscopy provision, mortality following AUGIB over the last two decades has remained high, with over 9,000 deaths annually in the UK; consequently, several national bodies have published UK-relevant guidelines. Despite this, the 2015 UK National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death in AUGIB highlighted variations in practice, raised concerns regarding suboptimal patient care and released a series of recommendations. This review paper incorporates the latest available evidence and UK-relevant guidelines to summarise the optimal pre-endoscopic, endoscopic, and post-endoscopic approach to and management of non-variceal and variceal AUGIB that will be of practical value to both general physicians and gastroenterologists.

The role of metallic clips in transcatheter intravascular embolization for non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding cases receiving unmanageable endoscopic therapy: A retrospective cohort study

INTRODUCTION

This study aims to explore whether metallic clips could be a kind of localizer and guider in transcatheter arterial embolization for patients with non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding, who received an unmanageable endoscopic therapy.

METHODS

A total of 18 patients with non-variceal hemorrhage of the upper gastrointestinal tract, who received an unmanageable endoscopic therapy at *** Hospital of **** Province from July 2010 to December 2016, were included into this study. One or two metallic clips were placed on the margin of the bleeding point to be a mark during the endoscopic therapy. Then, all patients were immediately transferred to have an emergent upper gastrointestinal angiography. Bleeding vessels were embolized when found according to the guidance of the metallic clips. After the procedure, any changes of the patient's condition were closely observed and recorded.

RESULTS

The average transcatheter arterial embolization therapy time was 31 min, 17 patients immediately had a successful result, and the success rate of the arterial embolization therapy was 94.44%. However, the bleeding could not be stopped in one patient. This patient was transferred and underwent a surgical operation to stop the bleeding.

CONCLUSION

Metallic clips could play an important role in accurately locating the bleeding vessel during the trans catheter arterial embolization therapy. Furthermore, it could also improve the success rate of stopping the bleeding during intravascular embolization therapy, and shorten the time of intravascular embolization therapy.

Transcatheter Arterial Embolization for Postoperative Bleeding Following Abdominal Surgery

PURPOSE

We aimed to estimate the usefulness of transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) in patients with postoperative abdominal hemorrhage and to evaluate the effects of pancreatic fistula on clinical outcomes and angiographic findings.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We enrolled 22 patients (20 males and 2 females; mean age 63 years; range 25-86 years), who underwent transarterial angiography for postoperative hemorrhage after abdominal surgery. This group corresponded to 28 procedures. Technical and clinical success rates were calculated, and clinical findings and outcomes were compared between patients with and without a pancreatic fistula.

RESULTS

Pre-interventional CT was performed in all patients before first angiography, and the location of the bleeding was identified in all but one patient. Active arterial bleeding, identified by extravasation of contrast agent (n = 12), pseudoaneurysm formation (n = 12), and arterial wall irregularity (n = 2) were detected in 28 angiographic procedures, and embolization was performed in 26 instances. Various embolization techniques such as isolation, packing, embolization, and stentgraft implantation were performed. The technical and clinical success rates were 96% (25/26 procedures) and 82% (18/22 patients), respectively. In hemodynamically unstable patients (shock index: heart rate/systolic blood pressure > 1), a 92% (12/13 cases) technical success rate was achieved. There were no significant differences in any evaluated parameters between patients with and without pancreatic fistula.

CONCLUSION

TAE is a safe and effective for treating postoperative hemorrhage even in patients with hemodynamic instability and pancreatic fistula. Additionally, pre-interventional CT is useful for effective, consecutive interventions.

Evaluation and management of Non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding

Non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding continues to be an important cause of morbidity and mortality. The most common causes include peptic ulcer disease, Mallory-Weiss syndrome, erosive gastritis, duodenitis, esophagitis, malignancy, angiodysplasias and Dieulafoy's lesion. Initial assessment and early aggressive resuscitation significantly improves outcomes. Upper gastrointestinal endoscopy continues to be the gold standard for diagnosis and treatment. We present a comprehensive review of literature for the evaluation and management of non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

Rockall Score Larger Than 7 as a Reliable Criterion for the Selection of Indications for Preventive Transarterial Embolization in a Subgroup of High-Risk Elderly Patients After Primary Endoscopic Hemostasis for Non-Variceal Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding

Background

Transarterial embolization (TAE) is an alternative procedure to repeat endoscopy or surgical intervention in the case of re-bleeding after primary endoscopic treatment. The aim of the study was to assess the Rockall score as a criterion for TAE in the case of re-bleeding after endoscopic treatment of non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB).

Methods

Out of the 673 patients who underwent emergent endoscopic hemostasis due to NVUGIB, 111 had a high risk of re-bleeding having a Forrest I-IIb ulcer and the Rockall score ≥ 5. From 111 patients, 37 accepted preventive TAE (PE+ group). The control group consisted of 74 patients who underwent standard treatment (PE- group).

Results

There were no differences in the demographic status between both groups, nor in the main clinical data on admission. The performance of TAE resulted in a significantly lower re-bleeding rate (1 (4.8%) vs. 11 (33%), P = 0.018). No patient who underwent TAE with the Rockall score ≥ 7 required surgery, resulting in only one re-bleeding episode (P = 0.004). Mortality reached 5% and 11% in the PE+ and PE- groups accordingly.

Conclusion

The Rockall score ≥ 7 could be a reliable predictor of re-bleeding after primary endoscopic hemostasis as one criterion for the selection of indications for preventive TAE.

Comparison of Risk Stratification Scores for Patients Presenting with Symptoms of Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding in the Emergency Department

Objective

To compare four scoring systems to predict outcomes in patients with symptoms of upper gastrointestinal bleeding presenting to the emergency department.

Method

A single centered prospective cohort study. All adult patients presenting to the emergency department of the studying centre with haematemsis or tarry stool or coffee ground vomiting or coffee ground aspirate from nasogastric tube were included from February 2012 to April 2012. The outcome variables include mortality, length of stay in hospital, blood product transfusion and interventions for bleeding control. The AIMS65 score, pre-endoscopic Rockall score, Glasgow Blatchford Score (GBS) and the modified Glasgow Blatchford Score (mGBS) were evaluated. Diagnostic characteristics were presented and areas under the receiver-operating-characteristic (AUROC) curve were compared.

Results

A total of 129 patients were included in the study. 81 of them (62.8%) had upper endoscopy performed. The mortality rate was 3.1%. Initial haemoglobin level of <10 was an important factor in risk stratification. Validation of the 4 scoring systems showed GBS had highest sensitivities (98.3-100%) and negative predictive values (90-100%) for all outcome variables but could not achieve a good specificity and positive predictive values against the outcomes. Both GBS and modified GBS outperformed the other two scoring systems in the AUROC curves in predicting composite high-risk outcome, length of stay in hospital and blood transfusion.

Conclusion

GBS appeared the best scoring system in the emergency department for screening purpose and to stratify those high risk patients for admission and low risk patients for out-patient management. (Hong Kong j.emerg.med. 2016;23:199-209)

Gastroduodenal artery coiling to curb upper gastrointestinal bleeding

BACKGROUND

Peptic ulcers in pediatric populations are uncommon and can present with upper gastrointestinal bleeding and shock on presentation. An endoscopy is done initially to identify bleeding source. However, definitive treatment is achieved with angiography. The use of coiling is effective in achieving hemorrhagic control in duodenal ulcers or gastric ulcers, particularly in adults. However, the use in pediatric populations is unknown. We present a case of peptic ulcer disease treated with a gastroduodenal artery coil in a pediatric patient that has never been reported in the literature.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 15-year-old male with a five-year history of peptic ulcer disease was admitted with an upper gastrointestinal bleed. Angiographic imaging was done to isolate and locate the bleeding, and coil embolization of the gastroduodenal artery was performed. Coils eroded into intestinal lumen but bleeding was controlled.

CONCLUSION

Peptic ulcers in pediatric populations are rare and complex in nature. Besides aggressive resuscitation and endoscopy, other methods to control bleeding such as coil embolization can be performed. Further investigations are needed to understand long-term effects of coil embolization in pediatric peptic ulcer patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

5/Case Report/.

Biocompatibility and Effectiveness Evaluation of a New Hemostatic Embolization Agent: Thrombin Loaded Alginate Calcium Microsphere

Background. Until now, there has been no ideal embolization agent for hemorrhage in interventional treatment. In this study, the thrombin was encapsulated in alginate calcium microsphere using electrostatic droplet technique to produce new embolization agent: thrombin loaded alginate calcium microspheres (TACMs). Objectives. The present work was to evaluate the biocompatibility and hemostatic efficiency of TACMs. Methods. Cell cytotoxicity, hemolysis, and superselective embolization of dog liver arteries were performed to investigate the biocompatibility of TACMs. To clarify the embolic effect of TACMs mixed thrombus in vivo, hepatic artery injury animal model of 6 beagles was established and transcatheter artery embolization for bleeding was performed. Results. Coculture with VECs revealed the noncytotoxicity of TACMs, and the hemolysis experiment was negligible. Moreover, the histological study of TACMs in liver blood vessel showed signs of a slight inflammatory reaction. The results of transcatheter application of TACMs mixed thrombus for bleeding showed that the blood flow was shut down completely after the TACMs mixed thrombus was delivered and the postprocedural survival rate of animal models at 12 weeks was 100%. Conclusions. With their good biocompatibility and superior hemostatic efficiency, TACMs might be a promising new hemostatic agent with a wide range of potential applications.

Preventive transarterial embolization in upper nonvariceal gastrointestinal bleeding

Background

Transarterial embolization (TAE) is a therapeutic option for patients with a high risk of recurrent bleeding after endoscopic haemostasis. The aim of our prospective study was a preliminary assessment of the safety, efficacy, and clinical outcomes following preventive TAE in patients with non-variceal acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding (NVUGIB) with a high risk of recurrent bleeding after endoscopic haemostasis.

Methods

Preventive visceral angiography and TAE were performed after endoscopic haemostasis on patients with NVUGIB who were at a high risk of recurrent bleeding (PE+ group). The comparison group consisted of similar patients who only underwent endoscopic haemostasis, without preventive TAE (PE− group). The technical success of preventive TAE, the completeness of haemostasis, the incidence of rebleeding and the need for surgical intervention and the main outcomes were compared between the groups.

Results

The PE+ group consisted of 25 patients, and the PE− group of 50 patients, similar in age (median age 66 vs. 63 years), gender and comorbid conditions. The ulcer size at endoscopy was not significantly different (median of 152 mm vs. 127 mm). The most frequent were Forest II type ulcers, 44% in both groups. The distribution of the Forest grade was even. The median haemoglobin on admission was 8, 2 g/dl vs. 8,7 g/dl, p = 0,482, erythrocyte count was 2,7 × 10¹²/L vs. 2,9 × 10¹²/L, p = 0,727. The shock index and Rockall scores were similar, as well as and transfusion – on average, four units of packed red blood cells for the majority of patients in both groups, however, significantly more fresh frozen plasma was transfused in the PE− group, p = 0,013. The rebleeding rate was similar, while surgical treatment was needed notably more often in the PE- group, 8% vs. 35% accordingly, p = 0,012. The median ICU stay was 3 days, hospital stay – 6 days vs. 9 days, p = 0.079. The overall mortality reached 20%; in the PE+ group it was 4%, not reaching a statistically significant difference.

Conclusion

Preventive TAE is a feasible, safe and effective minimally invasive type of haemostasis decreasing the risk of repeated bleeding and preparing the patient for the definitive surgical intervention when indicated.

Provocative Endoscopy to Identify Bleeding Site in Upper Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Novel Approach in Transarterial Embolization

This report describes a novel approach to endoscopically induce bleeding by removing a clot from the bleeding site during angiography for upper gastrointestinal (UGI) hemorrhage. This procedure enabled accurate identification of the bleeding site, allowing for successful targeted embolization despite a negative initial angiogram. Provocative endoscopy may be a feasible and useful option for angiography of obscure bleeding sites in patients with UGI arterial hemorrhage.

Experimental study of doxorubicin interventional chemotherapy in the treatment of rabbit VX2 renal transplantation carcinoma

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore the effect of doxorubicin interventional chemotherapy on rabbit VX2 renal transplantation carcinoma and its mechanism.

METHODS

Thirty healthy New Zealand white rabbits were chosen to establish VX2 renal transplantation carcinoma models. The experimental rabbits were randomly divided into three groups with 10 rabbits in each group. The rabbits in the control group (negative control), doxorubicin group and cisplatin group were treated with saline, 5 mg/kg doxorubicin and 2 mg/kg cisplatin respectively. The tumor volume was monitored with B-mode ultrasonography. The rabbits were anesthetized and killed after two weeks of interventional chemotherapy. The changes of Bcl-2 and Bax at the levels of mRNA and protein were analyzed with real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

The efficacy of interventional chemotherapy was evaluated with tumor volume changes monitored by B-mode ultrasonography. The tumor volume of control group and doxorubicin group was 1.29±0.60 cm(3) and 0.47±0.12 cm(3) respectively. Further fluorescence quantitative PCR detection results showed that doxorubicin could reduce the Bcl-2 expression and increase the Bax expression (P < 0.05). The result of immunohistochemistry was consistent with that of fluorescence quantitative PCR.

CONCLUSIONS

The effect of doxorubicin interventional chemotherapy on renal transplantation carcinoma is obvious and the mechanism may be related to the down-regulation of Bcl-2 expression and up-regulation of Bax expression thus inducing the apoptosis of tumor cells.

Amoebic liver abscess with hepatic artery pseudoaneurysm: successful treatment by interventional radiology

Amoebic liver abscess is most common extra-intestinal presentation of amoebiasis. It is rarely complicated with vascular involvement including thrombosis of hepatic vein or IVC and pseudo-aneurysm of hepatic artery. We describe a case of hepatic artery pseudo-aneurysm as a complication of amoebic liver abscess treated with percutaneous embolization.

iPad-based primary 2D reading of CT angiography examinations of patients with suspected acute gastrointestinal bleeding: preliminary experience

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of the iPad (Apple Inc., Cupertino, CA) for two-dimensional (2D) reading of CT angiography (CTA) studies performed for suspected acute non-variceal gastrointestinal bleeding.

METHODS

24 CTA examinations of patients with suspected acute gastrointestinal bleeding confirmed (19/24, 79.2%) or ruled out (5/24, 20.8%) by digital subtraction angiography (DSA) were retrospectively reviewed by three independent readers on a commercial picture archiving communication system (PACS) workstation and on an iPad with Retina Display® 64 GB (Apple Inc.). The time needed to complete reading of every CTA examination was recorded, as well as the rate of detection of arterial bleeding and identification of suspected bleeding arteries on both devices.

RESULTS

Overall, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, sensitivity, specificity, positive- and negative-predictive values for bleeding detection were not significantly different while using the iPad and workstation (0.774 vs 0.847, 0.947 vs 0.895, 0.6 vs 0.8, 0.9 vs 0.944 and 0.750 vs 0.667, respectively; p > 0.05). In DSA-positive cases, the iPad and workstation allowed correct identification of the bleeding source in 17/19 cases (89.5%) and 15/19 cases (78.9%), respectively (p > 0.05). Finally, the time needed to complete reading of every CTA study was significantly shorter using the iPad (169 ± 74 vs 222 ± 70 s, respectively; p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Compared with a conventional PACS workstation, iPad-based preliminary 2D reading of CTA studies has comparable diagnostic accuracy for detection of acute gastrointestinal bleeding and can be significantly faster.

ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE

The iPad could be used by on-call interventional radiologists for immediate decision on percutaneous embolization in patients with suspected acute gastrointestinal bleeding.

Evaluation of gastrointestinal bleeding: Update of current radiologic strategies

Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is a common presentation with significant associated morbidity and mortality, the prevalence of which continues to rise with the ever-increasing aging population. Initial evaluation includes an esophagoduodeonscopy and/or colonoscopy, which may fail to reveal a source. Such cases prove to be a dilemma and require collaboration between gastroenterology and radiology in deciding the most appropriate approach. Recently, there have been a number of radiologic advances in the approach to GIB. The purpose of this review is to provide an evidence-based update on the most current radiologic modalities available and an algorithmic approach to GIB.

Role of interventional radiology in the management of acute gastrointestinal bleeding

Acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) can lead to significant morbidity and mortality without appropriate treatment. There are numerous causes of acute GIB including but not limited to infection, vascular anomalies, inflammatory diseases, trauma, and malignancy. The diagnostic and therapeutic approach of GIB depends on its location, severity, and etiology. The role of interventional radiology becomes vital in patients whose GIB remains resistant to medical and endoscopic treatment. Radiology offers diagnostic imaging studies and endovascular therapeutic interventions that can be performed promptly and effectively with successful outcomes. Computed tomography angiography and nuclear scintigraphy can localize the source of bleeding and provide essential information for the interventional radiologist to guide therapeutic management with endovascular angiography and transcatheter embolization. This review article provides insight into the essential role of Interventional Radiology in the management of acute GIB.

Outcome and predictive factors of successful transarterial embolization for the treatment of acute gastrointestinal hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Transarterial embolization (TAE) is an effective procedure for the treatment of acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB). Factors associated with clinical success have not been well delineated.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the technical and clinical successes of TAE for acute GIB in order to identify factors influencing clinical success and in-hospital mortality.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a retrospective study of 70 consecutive patients with GIB who underwent angiography and embolization between January 2004 and December 2011. The technical success rate, clinical success rate, and in-hospital mortality were calculated by percentage. Clinical parameters, angiographic, and embolization data were assessed for factors influencing clinical success and in-hospital survival using univariate and multivariate analysis. Statistical significance was set at P value <0.05.

RESULTS

The technical success rate was 98.6%. The primary clinical success rate was 71.4% and the secondary clinical success rate after repeat embolization was 78.6%. Bowel infarction was the most serious complication of three (4.3%) patients. Failure to achieve 30-day hemostasis can be predicted in patients who have one or more of the following factors: hemoglobin concentration <8 g/dL (P = 0.004), coagulopathy (P = 0.005), upper GIB (P = 0.02), contrast extravasation (P = 0.012), and more than one embolized vessel (P = 0.005). In-hospital survival is affected by the amount of transfused packed red blood cells before embolization (P = 0.008) and post-embolization bowel infarction (P = 0.005).

CONCLUSION

TAE is a feasible and effective management of acute GIB with high technical and clinical success rates. The factors influencing clinical success include hemoglobin concentration, coagulopathy, upper GIB, contrast extravasation, and more than one embolized vessel. The number of units of transfused packed red blood cells and post-embolization bowel infarction are important factors associated with in-hospital mortality.

Is the AIMS65 score useful in predicting outcomes in peptic ulcer bleeding?

AIM: To evaluate the applicability of AIMS65 scores in predicting outcomes of peptic ulcer bleeding.

METHODS: This was a retrospective study in a single center between January 2006 and December 2011. We enrolled 522 patients with upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage who visited the emergency room. High-risk patients were regarded as those who had re-bleeding within 30 d from the first endoscopy as well as those who died within 30 d of visiting the Emergency room. A total of 149 patients with peptic ulcer bleeding were analysed, and the AIMS65 score was used to retrospectively predict the high-risk patients.

RESULTS: A total of 149 patients with peptic ulcer bleeding were analysed. The poor outcome group comprised 28 patients [male: 23 (82.1%) vs female: 5 (10.7%)] while the good outcome group included 121 patients [male: 93 (76.9%) vs female: 28 (23.1%)]. The mean age in each group was not significantly different. The mean serum albumin levels in the poor outcome group were slightly lower than those in the good outcome group (P = 0.072). For the prediction of poor outcome, the AIMS65 score had a sensitivity of 35.5% (95%CI: 27.0-44.8) and a specificity of 82.1% (95%CI: 63.1-93.9) at a score of 0. The AIMS65 score was insufficient for predicting outcomes in peptic ulcer bleeding (area under curve = 0.571; 95%CI: 0.49-0.65).

CONCLUSION: The AIMS65 score may therefore not be suitable for predicting clinical outcomes in peptic ulcer bleeding. Low albumin levels may be a risk factor associated with high mortality in peptic ulcer bleeding.

Transcatheter arterial embolization with medical adhesive for nonvariceal gastrointestinal bleeding

AIM: To assess the clinical utility and safety of transcatheter arterial embolization with Fuaile medical adhesive (FAL) for control of arterial bleeding in the upper or lower gastrointestinal tract.

METHODS: Thirty-five patients with arterial bleeding of the gastrointestinal tract who underwent therapeutic transcatheter embolization using FAL during the period between October 2010 and June 2013 were retrospectively analyzed. Among the patients with upper gastrointestinal bleeding (n = 26), 5 had gastric ulcer, 7 had duodenal ulcer, 1 had pancreatic cancer, 4 had gastric cancer, 2 previously underwent suturing to stop bleeding gastric ulcer, 1 previously underwent surgery for duodenal ulcer, and 6 previously underwent gastrectomy. Among the patients with lower gastrointestinal bleeding (n = 9), 2 had jejunal cancer, 1 had ileal cancer, 2 had recurrent rectal cancer, 2 had recurrent colon cancer, and 2 had colorectal polyps. Super-selective transcatheter arterial embolization with mixtures of FAL and iodized oil (1:1) was performed when the signs of bleeding was observed by radiography. Patient's blood pressure, heart rate, and hemoglobin level were assessed during 24 h before and after embolization. All the patients were followed for 1 year, and clinical effectiveness was evaluated and complications were analyzed.

RESULTS: Of 35 patients included, 33 were treated with FAL solely and 2 by FAL with microcoil. The rate of successful hemostasis was 100% (35/35). Four patients experienced rebleeding, of whom one had multiple ulcers and was retreated with coil and FAL successfully 6 days after the procedure, one who underwent gastrointestinal anastomosis was re-cured with FAL perfectly, and the other two died, one for pancreatic cancer three months after the embolization and one for massive rebleeding caused by pancreatic cancer and failed emergency surgery. Abdominal pain occurred in 5 patients, of whom 4 spontaneously relieved and 1 was referred to surgery for increased abdominal pain. Five patients died for cancer after the embolization during the follow-up and no rebleeding occurred.

CONCLUSION: The results suggest that FAL can be a useful alternative embolic agent for the treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding, with a low rebleeding rate and incidence of complications if used properly.

Outcomes following "rescue" superselective angioembolization for gastrointestinal hemorrhage in hemodynamically unstable patients

BACKGROUND

Therapeutic angioembolization is a relatively new "rescue treatment" modality for gastrointestinal hemorrhage (GIH) for unstable patients who fail primary treatment approaches; however, the effectiveness of this treatment and the incidence of ischemic necrosis following embolization for acute GIH are poorly described. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of "rescue" transcatheter superselective angioembolization (SSAE) for the treatment of hemodynamically unstable patients with GIH.

METHODS

A 10-year retrospective review of all hemodynamically unstable patients (systolic blood pressure < 90 mm Hg and ongoing transfusion requirement) who underwent "rescue" SSAE for GIH after failed endoscopic management was performed. All patients with evidence of active contrast extravasation were included. Data were collected on demographics, comorbidities, clinical presentation, and type of intravascular angioembolic agent used. Outcomes included technical success (cessation of extravasation), clinical success (no rebleeding requiring intervention within 30 days), and incidence of ischemic complications.

RESULTS

Ninety-eight patients underwent SSAE for GIH during the study period; 47 were excluded owing to lack of active contrast extravasation. Of the remaining 51 patients, 22 (43%) presented with a lower GIH and 29 (57%) with upper GIH. The majority underwent embolization with a permanent agent (71%), while the remaining patients received either a temporary agent (16%) or a combination (14%). The overall technical and clinical success rates were 98% and 71%, respectively. Of the 14 patients with technical success but clinical failure (rebleeding within 30 days) and the 1 patient with technical failure, 4 were managed successfully with reembolization, while 2 underwent successful endoscopic therapy, and 9 had surgical resections. Only one patient had an ischemic complication (small bowel necrosis) requiring resection.

CONCLUSION

SSAE, with reembolization if necessary, is an effective rescue treatment modality for hemodynamically unstable patients with active GIH. Of the patients, 20% will fail SSAE and require additional intervention. Ischemic complications are extremely rare.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic study, level IV.

Bedside bleeding control, review paper and proposed algorithm

Bleeding is a common occurrence in practice, but occasionally it may be challenging issue to overcome. It can come from numerous sources such as, trauma, during or post-surgical intervention, disorders of platelet and coagulation factors and increased fibrinolysis, wounds and cancers. This paper was inspired from our experience with a patient admitted to a local long term acute care facility with a large fungating right breast cancerous wound. During her hospital stay spontaneous bleeding from her breast cancerous mass was encountered and became more frequent and significant over the period of her stay. Different hemostatic technologies were used to control her bleeding. We felt that it was important to share our experience with our colleagues to help with potential similar situation that they may face.

Liquid Embolization with Onyx in a Technically Challenging Case of Acute Upper GI Bleeding

Conventional embolization such as coiling of acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding may be rendered impossible or unsuitable due to anatomical and technical factors. Liquid (Onyx) embolization in such situations may prove valuable and life saving, though literature on the subject, particularly of acute upper gastrointestinal bleeding due to duodenal ulcer, is sparse. We present a technically challenging case of acutely rebleeding duodenal ulcer embolized successfully using ethylene polyvinyl alcohol polymer (Onyx).

Transcatheter embolization as the new reference standard for endoscopically unmanageable upper gastrointestinal bleeding

Acute nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB) is a major medical emergency problem associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Endoscopy is considered the first method of choice to detect and treat UGIB. Endoscopic therapy usually achieves primary hemostasis, but 10%-30% of these patients have repeat bleeding. In patients in whom hemostasis is not achieved with endoscopic techniques, treatment with transcatheter angiographic embolization (TAE) or surgery is needed. Surgical intervention is usually an expeditious and gratifying endeavor, but it can be associated with high operative mortality rates. A large number of studies support the use of TAE as salvage therapy as an alternative to surgery. However, few studies have compared the results of TAE with that of emergency surgery in terms of efficiency, the frequency of repeat bleeding, and complications. Recently, Ang et al retrospectively compared the outcome of TAE and surgery as salvage therapy of UGIB after failed endoscopic treatment. There were no significant differences in 30 d mortality, complication rates and length of stay although higher rebleeding rates were observed after TAE compared with surgery. In this commentary, we discuss the advantages and drawbacks of these two therapeutic strategies for UGIB. We also attempt to define the exact role of TAE for acute nonvariceal UGIB.

Emergency transcatheter arterial embolization for patients with acute massive duodenal ulcer hemorrhage

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of emergency transcatheter arterial embolization (ETAE) for patients with acute massive duodenal ulcer hemorrhage.

METHODS: Twenty-nine consecutive patients with acute massive bleeding of duodenal ulcer were admitted to our hospital from 2006 to 2011. Superselective angiography of the celiac and gastroduodenal arteries was performed to find out the bleeding sites before ETAE, then, embolotherapy was done with gelatin sponge particles or microstrips via a 5 French angiographic catheter or 3 French microcatheter. After ETAE, further superior mesenteric arteriography was undertaken in case collateral circulation supplied areas of the duodenal ulcer. Technical and clinical success rates were analyzed. Changes in the mucous membrane were observed using endoscopy following ETAE.

RESULTS: Angiography showed active bleeding with extravasation of contrast medium in seven cases with a 24% positive rate of celiac artery bleeding, and in 19 cases with a 65.5% rate of gastroduodenal artery bleeding. There were no angiographic signs of bleeding in three patients who underwent endoscopy prior to ETAE. Twenty-six patients achieved immediate hemostasis and technical success rate reached 90%. No hemostasis was observed in 27 patients within 30 d after ETAE and clinical success rate was 93%. Recurrent hemorrhage occurred in two patients who drank a lot of wine who were treated by a second embolotherapy in the same way. Five patients underwent transient ischem with light abdominal pain under xiphoid, spontaneous restoration without special treatment. No mucous necrosis happened to 29 cases for ischem of gastroduodenal arteries embolized.

CONCLUSION: ETAE is an effective and safe measure to control acute massive bleeding of duodenal ulcer.