Chronic gastrointestinal bleeding from ileal varices after total proctocolectomy for ulcerative colitis: correction

Gastroenterology
|May 1, 1980
PubMed

Insights

A patient with ulcerative colitis experienced severe ileostomy bleeding. Specialized arteriography revealed ileal varices, successfully treated with a mesocaval shunt, preventing further hemorrhage.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Vascular Surgery
  • Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

  • Ulcerative colitis management can involve proctocolectomy and ileostomy.
  • Post-procedural ileostomy bleeding is a potential complication.

Observation:

  • A 48-year-old woman presented with persistent ileostomy bleeding for 24 months post-surgery.
  • Initial investigations including endoscopy and exploratory laparotomy failed to identify the bleeding source.

Findings:

  • Detailed arteriography with specific venous phase imaging identified ileal varices as the cause of bleeding.
  • A mesocaval shunt significantly reduced portal pressure.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the diagnostic value of specialized venous phase arteriography in obscure gastrointestinal bleeding.
  • Mesocaval shunt is an effective treatment for refractory ileostomy bleeding caused by ileal varices.

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