A novel method of treating colonic angiodysplasia.

BACKGROUND: Colonic angiodysplasia is responsible for up to a third of lower-GI bleeding cases. Argon plasma coagulation (APC) is a recognized treatment modality, but active bleeding decreases the ablative efficacy of APC by dissipation of the energy. APC has been associated with colonic perforation.

OBJECTIVES: We propose a novel and safe method for the treatment of colonic angiodysplasia by a submucosal injection of a saline epinephrine solution followed by the application of APC.

PATIENTS: Three patients with a total of 10 colonic angiodysplasias were treated with this injection-APC method.

INTERVENTIONS: Saline adrenaline solution (1:200,000) 2 to 3 mL was injected beneath the angiodysplasia before application of APC. APC 50 W and gas flow 2 L were applied onto the vascular lesion until the sufficient thermal effect was observed.

RESULTS: There were no procedure-related complications.

CONCLUSIONS: This new injection-APC method was safe for the treatment of colonic angiodysplasia. This may be useful in treating right-sided colonic lesions where the risks of perforation are greater than for the rest of the colon.