Evaluation of gastrointestinal bleeding: Update of current radiologic strategies

World J Gastrointest Pharmacol Ther. 2014 Nov 6;5(4):200-8. doi: 10.4292/wjgpt.v5.i4.200.

Abstract

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.

Keywords: Angiography; Embolization; Enterography; Enteroscopy; Gastrointestinal bleeding; Scintigraphy.

Publication types

  • Review