There is no cure for angiodysplasia. Treatment may not be required if changes to the colon are mild, and there is no evidence for bleeding. Treatment is required if angiodysplasia results in bleeding from the intestinal wall. In order to stop the bleeding, an endoscope is used to find the bleeding sites. The endoscope is a long flexible tube that allows a doctor to view the inside of the intestine. Once the bleeding site is identified, the bleeding vessels can be treated. Rarely, severe bleeding may require surgery to remove the bleeding section of the colon.

Treatment for angiodysplasia may include:

• Laser cautery for angiodysplasia
• Performed through an endoscope (like colonoscopy)
• Angiographic embolization for angiodysplasia:
• Injecting medication into the arteries that supply blood to bleeding sites, so that a clot forms in the bleeding vessel
• Surgery for angiodysplasia
• To remove the bleeding part of the colon
• Octreotide (Sandostatin)
• May reduce rate of bleeding from intestinal angiodysplasia
• Intravenous fluids
• Blood transfusion:
• To treat severe blood loss

The following are some important questions to ask before and after the treatment of angiodysplasia.

Questions to ask before treatment:

• What are my treatment options?
• Is surgery an option for me?
• What are the risks associated with treatment?
• Do I need to stay in the hospital?
• How long will I be in the hospital?
• What are the complications I should watch for?
• How long will I be on medication?
• What are the potential side effects of my medication?
• Does my medication interact with nonprescription medicines or supplements?
• Should I take my medication with food?

• Do I need to change my diet?
• Do I need to lose weight?
• Are there any medications or supplements I should avoid?
• When can I resume my normal activities?
• When can I return to work?
• Do I need a special exercise program?
• What else can I do to reduce my risk for having this problem again?
• How often will I need to see my doctor for checkups?
• What local support and other resources are available?

Physicians from the following specialties evaluate and treat angiodysplasia:

• Gastroenterology
• General Surgery
• Internal Medicine

Last Updated: Mar 9, 2011 References
Authors: Stephen J. Schueler, MD; John H. Beckett, MD; D. Scott Gettings, MD
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