Overview:
GI interventions treat urgent and complex gastrointestinal issues such as severe bleeding, obstructions, or tumors using minimally invasive, image-guided procedures. These approaches control bleeding, relieve blockages, and treat tumors without major surgery.
Symptoms & Diagnosis:
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GI bleeding: vomiting blood, passing black or tarry stools, dizziness
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Obstruction: abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting
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Tumors: weight loss, changes in bowel habits
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Diagnosis via endoscopy, CT angiography, or MRI
Procedure Details:
Includes:
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Embolization – to stop GI bleeding
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Stent placement – to relieve obstructions
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Tumor ablation or drainage – for GI tumors
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Performed via catheter inserted into arteries under real-time imaging guidance
Benefits:
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Controls bleeding quickly
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Avoids major surgery in emergencies
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Shorter recovery and hospital stay
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Effective for elderly or medically fragile patients
Risks & Considerations:
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Risk of re-bleeding after embolization
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Possible injury to surrounding tissues
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Requires skilled imaging and follow-up monitoring
Recovery & Aftercare:
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Typical recovery: 1–3 days
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Follow-up imaging and clinical checks to ensure bleeding has stopped and stents remain functional
Patient Experience:
Many patients experience immediate relief from life-threatening bleeding or obstruction, with minimal post-procedure discomfort.
FAQs:
Q: What are GI interventions used for?
A: To stop bleeding, relieve obstructions, or destroy tumors in the gastrointestinal tract.
Q: Is embolization safe?
A: Yes, when performed by experienced interventional radiologists, it’s highly effective and minimally invasive.