The case for computed tomographic angiography for initial management of lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage

Lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage remains a common disease, frequently presenting with acute life-threatening symptoms. Although prompt detection and treatment are imperative, it is difficult to diagnose lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage in an accurate and efficient manner. Most available modalities are time consuming. Computed tomographic angiography of the abdomen and pelvis, on the other hand, has the unique capability of rapidly detecting whether life-threatening hemorrhage is occurring and accurately localizing it, thus facilitating definitive treatment. We present a case in which computed tomographic angiography was invaluable in the detection and subsequent empirical transarterial embolization of a lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage and offer evidence as to why it should be a first-line tool in the management of these patients.