THE CONUNDRUM OF LOWER GASTROINTESTINAL-BLEEDING

Evaluation and management of the patient presenting with massive hemat ochezia is often difficult and confusing. Fortunately, the acute bleed ing subsides spontaneously in about 85% of patients. In those with ong oing bleeding, an aggressive evaluation is warranted and identifies th e site of bleeding in 85% to 90% of patients. Mortality and morbidity rates owing to this condition can be reduced greatly by expeditiously carrying out a reasoned plan of management.