Massive hemorrhage from jejunal diverticula

Three patients with bleeding jejunal diverticula that presented as life-threatening massive rectal hemorrhage were examined angiographically, with localization of the bleeding point. Vasopressin infusion did not result in adequate hemostasis in the two patients in whom it was attempted. Jejunal diverticula represent an uncommon, but not rare, source of massive gastrointestinal bleeding, usually presenting as "lower" tract hemorrhage. Without angiographic localization, surgical exploration for bleeding arising from jejunal diverticula has been difficult because of their occult nature and proximal location. A previously normal small intestine series does not preclude their presence.