ABSTRACT
Objective To discuss the value of combining superselective mesenteric angiography (SSMA)with methylene blue in-jection for localization of the Obscure Gastrointestinal Bleeding (OGIB).Methods 12 patients presenting with OGIB had preopera-tive localization of the bleeding site by SSMA.The microcatheter was remained inside the bleeding artery branch after angiography. Then the methylene blue was injected via the microcatheter for localization during exploratory laparotomy and the dyed intestine was then removed.Results The detected rate of bleeding sites by using preoperative SSMA was 100%.The lesions in total 12 patients were found quickly during the exploratory laparotomy.The length of the removed intestine was 9 -12 cm (median,10 cm).After followed up for 10-24 months (median,18 months),all patients with OGIB had no recurrence.Conclusion The method of SSMA combined with the use of methylene blue injection is a safe and effective procedure for the localization of OGIB and could be beneficial for increasing the surgical success rate of hemostasis.