Recent update of embolization of upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding

Korean J Radiol. 2012 Jan-Feb;13 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):S31-9. doi: 10.3348/kjr.2012.13.S1.S31. Epub 2012 Apr 23.

Abstract

Nonvariceal upper gastrointestinal (UGI) bleeding is a frequent complication with significant morbidity and mortality. Although endoscopic hemostasis remains the initial treatment modality, severe bleeding despite endoscopic management occurs in 5-10% of patients, necessitating surgery or interventional embolotherapy. Endovascular embolotherapy is now considered the first-line therapy for massive UGI bleeding that is refractory to endoscopic management. Interventional radiologists need to be familiar with the choice of embolic materials, technical aspects of embolotherapy, and the factors affecting the favorable or unfavorable outcomes after embolotherapy for UGI bleeding.

Keywords: Embolic materials; Embolization; Upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Angiography
  • Embolization, Therapeutic / methods*
  • Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / etiology
  • Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / therapy*
  • Hemostasis, Endoscopic
  • Humans
  • Upper Gastrointestinal Tract*