Angiographic diagnosis and endovascular treatment of gastrointestinal bleeding

Since its introduction, selective arteriography of the gastrointestinal tract has transformed from purely a diagnostic technique to a therapeutic method of bleeding control in the upper and lower gastrointestinal tract. Coaxial microcatheter embolization is now considered an option for this treatment in centres. Embolotherapy and endoscopic treatment of arterial gastrointestinal bleeding appear to be complementary. Patients with massive arterial bleeding should be first evaluated with angiography with the intent to be embolized while patients with intermittent bleeding should undergo endoscopy first, and in case of lower gastrointestinal bleeding with previous bowel preparation. Detailed history of a patient together with precise diagnostic imaging (scintigraphy, CT, angiography) plays key role in this treatment.