Analysis of Small Bowel Bleeding in South India: Insights from Endoscopic Evaluation at a Tertiary Center in Kerala

Objective: The aim of this study was to analyze the causes, clinical characteristics, and diagnostic approaches for small bowel (SB) bleeding in South India, utilizing data from combined spiral enteroscopy and capsule endoscopy procedures conducted at a tertiary center in Kerala.

Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 71 patients diagnosed with SB bleeding, who underwent combined spiral enteroscopy and capsule endoscopy at the tertiary center between January 2019 and December 2022. Detailed clinical information, including diagnosis procedures and causes of bleeding, was collected and analyzed.

Results: Among the 71 patients included in the study, with a median age of 48 years under general anesthesia, small bowel ulcers were the most common diagnosis (23 cases), followed by small bowel angiodysplasia (14 cases) and small bowel strictures (7 cases). Other identified causes included small bowel Dieulafoy’s lesions (1 case), small bowel polyps (2 cases), duodenal erosions (5 cases), jejunal diverticulum (1 case), jejunal mass (1 case), angiosarcoma (1 case), jejunal diverticular bleed (1 case), and jejunal submucosal hemangioma (1 case). Additionally, four cases of colon angiodysplasia were observed.

Conclusion: Small bowel ulcers, angiodysplasia, and strictures were the most frequent causes of SB bleeding in South India, as observed in data collected from combined spiral enteroscopy and capsule endoscopy procedures conducted at a tertiary center in Kerala. This study underscores the importance of utilizing advanced endoscopic techniques for accurate diagnosis and management of SB bleeding, thereby optimizing patient care outcomes in this population. Further research and clinical investigations are warranted to refine diagnostic approaches and enhance therapeutic interventions for SB bleeding.

Publication History

Article published online:
22 April 2024