Gastrointestinal Bleeding: From Overt to Obscure

Introduction

Despite advancements in endoscopic, radiographic, surgical, and pharmacological technology, the clinical spectrum of gastrointestinal bleeding is still a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Endoscopic methods of hemostasis and aggressive antisecretory therapy have reduced the need for emergency surgery in patients with bleeding peptic ulcers. The mortality rates from variceal bleeding remain high despite aggressive management, and many studies have therefore been conducted to assess the best therapeutic option for primary and secondary prophylaxis. While colonoscopy and angiography have led to improved management of patients with lower gastrointestinal bleeding, the role of endoscopic hemostatic methods is still being explored. Recent endoscopic advances such as double-balloon enteroscopy and capsule endoscopy have improved the diagnostic yield in patients with obscure gastrointestinal bleeding. Four topics reflecting the state of the art in the field of gastrointestinal bleeding that have been published during the past year are reviewed here.

References

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