Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding embolization is a potentially life-saving procedure used to stop active bleeding occurring inside your stomach or intestines.
Common Indications for GI Bleeding Embolization
This is often an urgent or emergency procedure requested if you have:
- Severe bleeding from stomach ulcers that an endoscopy could not fix.
- Bleeding in the lower intestines (colon) causing bloody stools.
- Internal bleeding where surgery is considered too risky.
What happens during the procedure?
Often, a fast CT scan is done first to pinpoint exactly where the bleeding is coming from. Then, using live X-ray video, the interventional radiologist navigates a tiny tube from your groin directly to the bleeding artery in your abdomen. Once the exact spot is found, they push tiny metal coils, medical glue, or special particles through the tube to plug the hole and stop the bleeding instantly.
Do I need to prepare?
Because this is typically performed during an emergency to treat active bleeding, standard fasting and preparation protocols are bypassed. The medical team will quickly give you fluids or blood transfusions to keep you stable while they work.
How long does it take?
Depending on how difficult it is to find the exact bleeding vessel, the procedure can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours.
Will it be painful?
You will likely be heavily sedated or under general anesthesia due to the emergency nature of the bleeding, so you will not feel pain during the treatment.
Conclusion
GI bleeding embolization is a critical, minimally invasive technique that can stop severe internal bleeding quickly. It is often a much safer alternative to open abdominal surgery for patients who are already unwell.