Active Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Gastrointestinal bleeding occurs when blood leaks from vessels in the digestive tract. Causes include ulcers, abnormal blood vessels, inflammation, tumours and complications of liver disease.
Symptoms
Vomiting blood, black tarry stools, red blood in stools, weakness, dizziness or fainting. Heavy bleeding can cause shock.
How interventional radiology treats it
Angiography can locate the bleeding vessel. During embolisation, a catheter delivers coils or other materials to block the responsible artery. This may control bleeding without major surgery. Endoscopy is often the first treatment for many causes, while the choice of treatment depends on the bleeding site, severity and patient's condition.
Whether this treatment suits you depends on your scans and overall health. A consultation is the first step.
Your doctors
Talk to an interventional radiologist.
Bring any scans or reports you have. We’ll tell you whether this treatment is an option.