Angiodysplasia Flashcards
1
Q
Pathophysiology of angiodysplasia
A
Age and strain on the bowel wall causing chronic and intermittent contraction of the colon, obstructing venous drainage. Consequent dilatation of veins and arteries result in incompetent precapillary sphincter and an arteriovenous malformation is formed.
2
Q
Presentation of angiodysplasia
A
- Melaena or faecal occult blood
- Anaemia
3
Q
Investigations for angiodysplasia (3)
A
- FBE
- Endoscopy / pill enteroscopy
- Selective angiography of the mesenteric arteries
4
Q
Most common site for angiodysplasias
A
Proximal colon (caecum, ascending)
5
Q
Management of angiodysplasia (4)
A
- Endoscopic cauterisation
- Angiography and embolisation
- Pro-coagulants (antifibrinolytics, tranexamic acid, oestrogen)
- Surgery (last line)
