Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 30, 2026

Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia
05:07

Multimodality Diagnosis of Mesenteric Ischemia

Published on: July 21, 2023

Diagnostic accuracy of CT angiography in acute gastrointestinal bleeding

A E Chua1, L J Ridley

  • 1Department of PET registrar, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. chua.angela@gmail.com

Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Oncology
|September 25, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Computed tomography angiography (CTA) accurately diagnoses acute gastrointestinal bleeding, identifying bleeding sources. However, further large studies are needed to confirm its clinical role due to methodological limitations.

Area of Science:

  • Radiology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Medical Imaging

Background:

  • Acute gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is a significant clinical challenge.
  • Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial for effective patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review the diagnostic accuracy of CT angiography (CTA) for acute GIB.
  • To evaluate CTA's sensitivity and specificity in identifying the source and cause of bleeding.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of published studies comparing CTA to reference standards (endoscopy, colonoscopy, angiography, surgery).
  • Inclusion of 8 studies with 129 patients.
  • Meta-analysis of diagnostic performance using 2x2 tables and ROC analysis.

Main Results:

  • Pooled sensitivity of CTA was 86% (95% CI 78-92%) and pooled specificity was 95% (95% CI 76-100%).
  • Summary ROC analysis yielded an area under the curve of 0.93, indicating high diagnostic accuracy.
  • CTA demonstrated low heterogeneity across studies.

Conclusions:

  • CT angiography is an accurate imaging modality for diagnosing acute gastrointestinal bleeding.
  • CTA can precisely locate the bleeding source and identify its etiology, guiding subsequent treatment.
  • Methodological limitations necessitate further large prospective studies to establish definitive clinical recommendations for CTA in acute GIB.

More Related Videos

Optimized Management of Endovascular Treatment for Acute Ischemic Stroke09:21

Optimized Management of Endovascular Treatment for Acute Ischemic Stroke

Published on: January 18, 2018

Related Concept Videos

Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT01:28

Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System V: CT

Cardiac computed tomography (CT) scanning is an advanced cardiac imaging technique that utilizes CT technology, with or without intravenous (IV) contrast, to produce accurate cross-sectional virtual slices of specific areas of the heart, coronary circulation, and major blood vessels such as the aorta, pulmonary veins, and arteries. The computer processes these slices to generate three-dimensional images. Multidetector CT (MDCT) is a rapid form of CT scanning that captures multiple slices...
Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies01:30

Acute Coronary Syndrome III: Diagnostic Studies

Diagnosing acute coronary syndrome or ACS begins with a thorough patient history. Notable symptoms include central, crushing chest pain radiating to the left arm, neck, jaw, or back, along with shortness of breath, sweating (diaphoresis), nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and palpitations.It is crucial to note any history of cardiac illnesses and assess risk factors, including age, gender, smoking, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and a sedentary lifestyle.During physical examination, vital...
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System VI: Calcium -Scoring CT01:25

Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System VI: Calcium -Scoring CT

Calcium-Scoring CT ScanA calcium-scoring CT scan, also known as coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan, detects calcium deposits in the coronary arteries. This test assesses the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD), which can lead to cardiovascular events such as angina, heart failure, and sudden cardiac arrest.A calcium-scoring CT scan is generally recommended for individuals at intermediate risk of CAD without symptoms. It includes:Men aged 40-75 and women aged 50-75: Especially those with a...
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:21

Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography01:27

Imaging Studies III: Computed Tomography

DefinitionComputed Tomography (CT) of the genitourinary (GU) tract is a non-invasive imaging modality that utilizes X-rays and computer processing to generate detailed cross-sectional images of the urinary system, encompassing the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and adjacent structures such as the adrenal glands.PurposeCT scans of the GU tract serve several diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, including:Diagnosis of Urinary Tract Diseases: Detects kidney stones, tumors, cysts, and congenital...
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:20

Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

The key difference between Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT) and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) lies in their location and severity.Clinical ManifestationsSVT typically presents with localized pain, tenderness, and redness along the course of a superficial vein, often accompanied by a palpable, cord-like structure under the skin. This condition is usually less dangerous than DVT but can be uncomfortable and may lead to complications such as cellulitis or, rarely, a clot extension into the deep...