GI Bleeder Embolisation

GI (Gastrointestinal) Bleeder Embolization is a minimally invasive procedure performed by interventional radiologists to treat active gastrointestinal bleeding. When a patient experiences bleeding in the stomach, small intestine, or colon, embolization is used to block the blood vessels that are bleeding or at risk of bleeding. This procedure is often used as an alternative to surgical intervention or when the exact source of the bleeding is difficult to identify. Embolization is done using a catheter, which is inserted through the skin and directed to the bleeding vessels under imaging guidance (such as fluoroscopy or CT scans).

Minimally Invasive: GI Bleeder Embolization offers a less invasive alternative to surgery, reducing the need for major surgery and resulting in a quicker recovery time.

Effective in Acute Situations: This treatment is ideal for quickly controlling life-threatening GI bleeding, especially in emergency situations.

Targeted Treatment: Embolization precisely targets the bleeding vessel, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.

Lower Risk: Compared to surgery, embolization carries a lower risk of complications, including infection, anesthesia-related issues, and blood loss.

Preserves Organ Function: The treatment aims to stop the bleeding while preserving the function of the affected organ, particularly in vital areas like the stomach and intestines.

Pre-Procedure:

The procedure begins with imaging tests like CT scans or endoscopy to locate the source of the GI bleeding. Sedation or local anesthesia is often used, with general anesthesia sometimes required for distressed patients.

Catheter Insertion:

A small incision is made in the groin (or wrist) to insert a catheter into the femoral or radial artery. The catheter is guided through the blood vessels using real-time imaging techniques like fluoroscopy or angiography.

Embolization:

Once the bleeding site is located, the interventional radiologist injects embolizing agents through the catheter to block the bleeding vessels. These may include:

  • Coils: Tiny metallic coils that induce clotting to block the blood vessel.
  • Gelatin Sponge or Embolic Particles: Materials that promote clotting and block blood flow.
  • Glue: Medical adhesive that seals the blood vessel.
  • Liquid Embolic Agents: Substances injected to form a clot and halt the bleeding.
Post-Procedure:

After the embolization, the catheter is removed, and the incision is sealed. Patients may need to stay for observation, and follow-up imaging ensures the procedure's success.

  • Minimally Invasive: No large incisions, resulting in reduced pain, scarring, and faster recovery time.
  • Fast and Effective: Quickly stops active bleeding, preventing further complications in emergency situations.
  • Fewer Complications: Being minimally invasive with local anesthesia, this procedure carries a lower risk of complications compared to traditional surgery.
  • Preserves Organ Function: Targets the bleeding vessel, leaving surrounding tissue intact and maintaining the function of the stomach and intestines.
  • Quick Recovery: Many patients recover quickly, with some even going home the same day or after a short hospital stay.
  • Emergency Option: Ideal for use in emergency settings, particularly for acute GI bleeding cases where other methods have failed.

  • Patients with active GI bleeding from conditions like gastric ulcers, diverticulosis, hemorrhoids, or vascular malformations in the intestines.
  • Individuals with trauma-related bleeding in the abdominal or pelvic regions.
  • Older adults or those with other health conditions who may not be candidates for traditional surgery.
  • Patients with recurrent GI bleeding or conditions that are difficult to treat with surgery, requiring rapid control.
  • People suffering from tumors or masses that cause bleeding in the digestive tract, such as colorectal cancer or gastric cancer.