Interventional Radiology in Acute Gastrointestinal Bleeding Management

The text discusses the role of interventional radiology in the management of acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB), emphasizing the importance of prompt and effective diagnostic imaging studies and endovascular therapeutic interventions. It highlights the causes and clinical evaluation of GIB, the indications for angiography, and the angioarchitectural evaluation and management of acute GIB. The article emphasizes the effectiveness and safety of endovascular angiography and transcatheter arterial embolization in controlling acute GIB, providing a safe and effective alternative to surgery. The use of embolic agents and the potential complications associated with endovascular interventions are also discussed.

• Acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) can lead to significant morbidity and mortality, and the role of interventional radiology is vital in managing cases that are resistant to medical and endoscopic treatment.
• Diagnostic imaging studies such as computed tomography angiography (CTA) and nuclear scintigraphy play a crucial role in localizing the source of bleeding and providing essential information for the interventional radiologist.
• Endovascular angiography and transcatheter arterial embolization are highlighted as safe and effective options for stabilizing bleeding, with a discussion of the different embolic agents and their respective advantages and disadvantages.
• The potential complications associated with endovascular interventions, including the risk of bowel ischemia and non-target embolization, are also addressed.
• Overall, the text emphasizes the importance of prompt radiologic imaging studies and endovascular intervention in the management of acute GIB to prevent adverse outcomes.