Abstract
Reports on gastrointestinal bleeding causing by an arteriovenous malformation (AVM) in the GI organs are increasing seen with a progression in its diagnostic technology. Surgical excision is commonly employed for this disease, but we often have difficulties to perform emergency operation at massive bleeding. Recently a case of massive melena from an AVM in the large intestine in a 46-year-old man is experienced. The diagnosis was made based on abdominal antiography. Since his general condition was poor, a catheter was continuously indwelled without choice. Sustained intraarterial vasopressin infusion successfully managed the bleeding. There has been no bleeding, as of about 2 years after the treatment. Evaluation of everlasting effect of this vasopressin regimen for a colorectal AVM would demand further long-term follow up and accumulation of such cases. This regimen can at least be the first choice on serious cases having high risks for operation, like this case.
