Near-fatal hemorrhage following gastrografin studies

The use of upper gastrointestinal studies followed by gastric drainage and observation is recommended for the evaluation and treatment of stomal dysfunction due to edema or gastric atony. Gastrografin though, may be precipitated out and can cause gastrointestinal bleeding if left in the gastric remenant. This agent should be used with proper precautions in the evaluation of postoperative gastric retention.