American Journal of Oral Medicine and Radiology

UPER-SELECTIVE MESENTERIC EMBOLIZATION FOR ACUTE LOWER GASTROINTESTINAL BLEEDING: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY AND REVIEW OF CLINICAL OUTCOMES

Revanth V*

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB), Super-selective mesenteric embolization, Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CE-MDCT), Radionuclide scintigraphy (RS), Angiographic interventions

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) accounts for 20-24% of gastrointestinal bleeding cases and becomes more prevalent with age. While most cases are manageable through endoscopic and angiographic interventions, surgical options such as colectomy may be required in severe or refractory cases. Super-selective mesenteric embolization has emerged as a minimally invasive and effective alternative. Methods: This retrospective study, conducted at PSP Medical College Hospital and Research Institute, reviewed the outcomes of patients with LGIB treated using super-selective embolization. Patients diagnosed via radionuclide scintigraphy (RS) or contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CEMDCT) and undergoing angiography were included. Data collected included demographics, comorbidities, diagnostic modalities, procedural success, and complications. Technical and clinical success rates were assessed along with complications over a one- and six-month follow-up period. Results: Of the 38 patients included, 65.8% were male, and the median age was 39 years (range: 59–92). Anticoagulant therapy was common, with 36% on aspirin, 19% on dual antiplatelet therapy, and 8% on other anticoagulants. Super-selective embolization achieved favorable technical and clinical success rates, with minimal complications. Comparisons with other studies highlighted differences in success rates and complications, likely influenced by variations in procedural techniques and patient populations. Conclusion: Super-selective embolization is a safe and effective treatment for acute, unstable LGIB, offering high technical success rates and reduced complication risks compared to traditional surgical approaches. Standardized protocols and larger prospective studies are recommended to validate these findings and further refine treatment strategies