A Detailed Guide to GI Bleed Scan

What is GI Bleed Scan?

A GI Bleed Scan, also known as a gastrointestinal bleeding scan or a tagged red blood cell scan, is a diagnostic imaging test used to locate the source of bleeding in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It is a non-invasive procedure that helps identify areas of active bleeding or abnormal blood flow within the digestive system. The GI Bleed Scan is a valuable tool in identifying the cause of gastrointestinal bleeding, which can stem from various conditions such as ulcers, polyps, diverticulosis, tumors, or vascular abnormalities. It provides crucial information for healthcare providers to make accurate diagnoses and develop appropriate treatment plans for patients experiencing gastrointestinal bleeding.

Why do I need a GI Bleed Scan Test?

A GI Bleed Scan test may be recommended by your healthcare provider for several reasons. Here are some common situations where a GI Bleed Scan may be needed:

Unexplained Gastrointestinal Bleeding: If you are experiencing unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding, such as blood in the stool, black or tarry stools, or vomiting blood, a GI Bleed Scan can help identify the source of the bleeding. It provides valuable information to pinpoint the location and severity of the bleeding within the digestive system.
Occult Blood in Stool: Sometimes, blood in the stool may not be visible to the naked eye but can be detected through occult blood testing. If occult blood is found in your stool samples, a GI Bleed Scan can help localize the bleeding site and determine the underlying cause.
Diagnostic Confirmation: In cases where other diagnostic tests, such as endoscopy or colonoscopy, have not been able to identify the source of gastrointestinal bleeding, a GI Bleed Scan can serve as a complementary diagnostic tool. It can help locate bleeding that may be intermittent or difficult to detect during conventional procedures.
Monitoring Treatment Response: For individuals with known gastrointestinal bleeding, a GI Bleed Scan can be useful in monitoring the response to treatment. It allows healthcare providers to assess the effectiveness of interventions, such as medications or surgical procedures, and make appropriate adjustments to the treatment plan if needed.
Preoperative Evaluation: In certain cases, a GI Bleed Scan may be performed before a surgical procedure involving the gastrointestinal tract. It helps surgeons identify the exact location of the bleeding site and plan the most appropriate surgical approach.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) Evaluation: GI Bleed Scan tests can be useful in evaluating patients with known or suspected inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. It can help identify areas of active inflammation or bleeding, aiding in disease assessment and treatment planning.
Angiodysplasia or Vascular Anomalies: GI Bleed Scans can assist in the diagnosis and evaluation of angiodysplasia, which refers to abnormal blood vessel formations in the gastrointestinal tract. It helps locate the bleeding source and guides further management decisions.
Post-Surgical Complications: After gastrointestinal surgeries or procedures, a GI Bleed Scan can be employed to assess for any post-operative complications, such as anastomotic leaks, bleeding, or abnormal blood flow in the operated area.
Monitoring Chronic Conditions: For individuals with chronic gastrointestinal conditions, such as diverticulosis, arteriovenous malformations, or gastrointestinal tumors, periodic GI Bleed Scans may be recommended to monitor for any changes in bleeding patterns or to evaluate treatment effectiveness.

What happens during a GI Bleed Scan test?

During a GI Bleed Scan test, the following steps typically occur:

Preparation: Before the test, you may be asked to follow specific instructions, such as fasting for a certain period of time. This allows for better visualization of the gastrointestinal tract during the scan. You may also be asked to stop certain medications or dietary supplements that could interfere with the test results. It's essential to communicate any relevant medical conditions or allergies to the healthcare team.
Radiotracer Injection: You will be positioned on an examination table, and a small amount of blood will be withdrawn from your arm. This blood sample is then mixed with a radioactive tracer, usually technetium-99m labeled red blood cells. The tracer attaches to the red blood cells, allowing their movement to be tracked during the scan. The tagged blood cells are then re-injected into your bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) line.
Waiting Period: After the injection, you may need to wait for a certain period, usually about an hour or two, for the tagged blood cells to circulate and distribute throughout your body, including the gastrointestinal tract. This waiting period allows the tracer to accumulate at the bleeding site, if present.
Scanning Process: Once the waiting period is complete, you will be positioned under a gamma camera, which is a specialized imaging device. The gamma camera detects the gamma rays emitted by the radioactive tracer in your body. The camera is placed close to or around your abdomen, and it will move slowly to capture images at different angles.
Image Acquisition: As the gamma camera rotates or moves, it captures images of your abdomen. The camera may take several images over a period of time, typically ranging from a few minutes to an hour. You will be required to lie still during the image acquisition process to ensure clear and accurate images.
Localization Techniques: If a potential bleeding site is identified during the scan, additional techniques may be used to further localize the source. For example, selective angiography or tagged red blood cell scintigraphy may be performed to precisely pinpoint the location of the bleeding and guide subsequent interventions.
Completion and Results: After the scanning is complete, the images are reviewed and analyzed by a trained nuclear medicine specialist. They interpret the images to identify areas of abnormal tracer accumulation that may indicate bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. The findings are then documented in a report, which will be shared with your referring healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you and determine the next steps, such as additional tests or treatments, based on the findings.

What is the price of a GI Bleed Scan Test?

The cost of a GI Bleed Scan Test in Delhi can range from around INR 3,000 to INR 8,000 or more. This estimate is for the scan alone and does not include any additional services or consultations that may be required. The price of a GI Bleed Scan Test in India can vary depending on several factors such as the location of the diagnostic center, the type of facility (public or private), and any additional services or consultations included in the package. It's always best to check with specific diagnostic centers in your area for accurate and up-to-date pricing information.

However, as a general guideline, Prices may also vary based on the city or region within India. It's important to contact the diagnostic centers directly to inquire about their pricing structure and any applicable discounts or packages that may be available.

Best Diagnostic Centre for GI Bleed Scan in Delhi

If you're seeking the best diagnostic Centre for a GI Bleed Scan in Delhi, Ganesh Diagnostic and Imaging Centre is a trusted option. Known for its exceptional services, Ganesh Diagnostic and Imaging Centre is dedicated to delivering high-quality GI Bleed Scan procedures in Delhi. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a team of skilled medical professionals, the Centre ensures accurate and reliable results for patients. With a focus on patient care and precise diagnoses, Ganesh Diagnostic and Imaging Centre stands out as a top choice for GI Bleed Scan services in the bustling city of Delhi.