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[Scintigraphic localization of colonic bleeding]
R K Aspevik1, J Miskowiak, M Buò
1Kirurgisk avdeling Rana sykehus 8607 Mo i Rana. ranveigaspevik@hotmail.com
Background:
Endoscopy and, occasionally, X-ray studies are used to discover the focus of a gastrointestinal bleeding.
Material And Methods:
We describe a case of severe gastrointestinal bleeding where these methods failed. Scintigraphy after labelling of erythrocytes with 99m technetium was performed in a continuous manner for 60 minutes. Scintigrams were also taken three, ten and 23 hours after the injection.
Results:
No bleeding was revealed after 60 minutes, but two hours later a slight radioactivity was encountered in the right part of the abdomen and the later images localised the bleeding to the right colon. The bleeding ceased after right-sided hemicolectomy.
Interpretation:
Scintigraphy is of value in localisation of gastrointestinal bleeding and should be performed in a continuous manner until the bleeding focus is localised. Secretion of unbound technetium through the mucosa of the stomach and its presence in the urinary tract should be taken in account.