Selective superior mesenteric embolization for small intestinal hemorrhage

A 25-year-old white woman who had previously undergone two operations for peptic ulcer disease, and was addicted to drugs and alcohol, had massive hemorrhage from the small intestine. Angiography pinpointed the jejunum as the source of bleeding. Because the patient had a coagulopathy she was considered a poor risk for surgery. Bleeding was controlled by embolization with sterile, commercially available Gelfoam (Upjohn) which was injected into the offending branch of the superior mesenteric artery. This is believed to be only the third documented case of embolization of small intestinal vessels. A review of the available literature is presented and the value of Gelfoam embolization as an adjunct in the control of hemorrhage in selected patients is stressed.