Metoclopramide: An aid in the diagnosis of lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage by technetium-99m labeled red blood cells

A case of right colonic hemorrhage in a patient with an adynamic intestinal ileus was documented by Tc-99m red blood cells (RBC) with the aid of metoclopramide. Metoclopramide is a commonly used pharmaceutical that stimulates motility primarily in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Colonic transit of the extravasated labeled red blood cells was demonstrated only after intravenous administration of metoclopramide, aiding in localization of the bleeding site. Metoclopramide may be a useful adjuvant in localizing the site of lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage with Tc-99m RBC in patients with adynamic ileus.

Duke Scholars

Author Mathew David Wiener Radiology