Radiographic work-up and treatment of lower gastrointestinal bleeding

Lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage is a common reason for hospital admission. Spontaneous cessation occurs in the majority of these patients; however, continued major bleeding is a difficult clinical problem. Emergency surgery, without prior knowledge of the bleeding site is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Accurate localization is therefore desirable. The authors present a review of current radiological imaging modalities and therapeutic options available to the clinician. They also provide a management algorithm to aid in the strategic management of this group of patients.