Evaluation and management of gastrointestinal bleeding.

A logical, reasoned approach is essential to the successful management of gastrointestinal hemorrhage. This article describes the approach used by the staff of the Ochsner Clinic Foundation's Department of Colon and Rectal Surgery to evaluate and manage lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage, along with the evidence and experience that guided its development. Following resuscitation, diagnostic studies localize the presence and source of hemorrhage, while management options (non-operative and operative) control the bleeding.