Endoscopic Treatment for GI Bleeding: Finding & Controlling the Source
A comprehensive guide to urgent endoscopy for gastrointestinal bleeding, used to both identify and directly treat the source of bleeding.
Treatment begins with
Stabilization
Urgent Endoscopy
Endoscopic Treatment
Monitoring & Follow-up
This procedure is used for suspected or confirmed gastrointestinal bleeding.
You may need this if...
These signs may indicate that this treatment is the recommended course of care:
- Vomiting blood or coffee-ground material
- Black, tarry stools or visible rectal bleeding
- A drop in blood counts suggesting ongoing blood loss
- Known risk factors such as ulcers or liver disease with new bleeding symptoms
A gastroenterologist's evaluation confirms whether this treatment is the right option for you.
What Does This Procedure Involve?
After initial stabilization, urgent endoscopy examines the digestive tract to identify the exact bleeding source, which can often be treated directly during the same procedure.
Most bleeding sources found during endoscopy, such as ulcers or enlarged veins, can be treated immediately using endoscopic tools.
When This Treatment is Considered
This procedure is used for suspected or confirmed gastrointestinal bleeding.
- Vomiting blood or coffee-ground material
- Black, tarry stools or visible rectal bleeding
- A drop in blood counts suggesting ongoing blood loss
- Known risk factors such as ulcers or liver disease with new bleeding symptoms
The Care Pathway
1. Stabilization
IV fluids and, if needed, blood transfusion stabilize you before the procedure.
2. Urgent Endoscopy
The food pipe, stomach and intestine or colon are examined to locate the bleeding source.
3. Endoscopic Treatment
Clipping, cauterization or banding controls the bleeding source directly.
4. Monitoring & Follow-up
You are monitored closely afterward, with medication to reduce rebleeding risk.
“Your care team supports you through every stage, from evaluation to recovery and follow-up.”
Expected Benefits and Possible Risks
Endoscopic treatment successfully controls the large majority of GI bleeding sources without the need for surgery.
Every treatment has potential risks. Your gastroenterologist will discuss your individual risks before treatment.
Recovery & Follow-up
Most patients are monitored in hospital for one to a few days depending on the severity and cause of bleeding.
Your gastroenterologist will advise on follow-up testing and any medication needed to prevent rebleeding.
Careful follow-up and guidance on diet and lifestyle all play an important role in achieving the best possible outcome.
Questions to Ask Your Care Team
- 1.What was the source of my bleeding?
- 2.What is my risk of the bleeding recurring?
- 3.Do I need to stop any current medications?
- 4.When will I need a follow-up endoscopy?
Not Sure What You Need?
Speak to a Care Guide and we'll help you choose the right gastroenterologist.
Talk to Care GuideRelated Care
A care guide can match your condition to the right gastroenterologist.
Share your concern or existing reports. We will help you choose the right hospital, doctor and appointment.
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