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Evaluation of gastrointestinal bleeding: Update of current radiologic strategies
Parth J Parekh1, Ross C Buerlein1, Rouzbeh Shams1
1Parth J Parekh, Rouzbeh Shams, Department of Internal Medicine, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23510, United States.
Insights
Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is a growing concern, especially in older adults. This review updates current radiologic approaches for diagnosing GIB when standard endoscopy fails, offering an algorithmic strategy.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Gastroenterology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) presents a significant clinical challenge with increasing prevalence in aging populations.
- Standard endoscopic evaluations (esophagoduodenoscopy, colonoscopy) may not identify the bleeding source in all cases.
- Unidentified GIB necessitates multidisciplinary collaboration between gastroenterology and radiology for optimal management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an evidence-based review of contemporary radiologic modalities for diagnosing gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB).
- To present an updated algorithmic approach to managing GIB, integrating recent radiologic advancements.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on radiologic techniques for evaluating gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Synthesis of evidence to support an algorithmic diagnostic pathway.
- Focus on advanced imaging modalities and their clinical utility in GIB.
Main Results:
- Recent advancements in radiologic imaging offer improved diagnostic capabilities for GIB.
- An algorithmic approach can guide the selection of appropriate imaging modalities.
- Radiology plays a crucial role in identifying sources of GIB missed by endoscopy.
Conclusions:
- Radiologic modalities are increasingly vital in the diagnosis of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding.
- An integrated approach utilizing endoscopy and advanced radiology improves diagnostic yield.
- This review offers a framework for leveraging radiologic tools in the management of GIB.
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.
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