Hemospray

Hemospray is a medical device used in the endoscopy procedure to control bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. It is a non-thermal, non-traumatic treatment for upper and lower gastrointestinal bleeding.

Overview

Hemospray is a powder that, when applied to a bleeding site, absorbs water and forms a mechanical barrier, aiding in the formation of a clot to stop bleeding. It is delivered through a catheter that is passed through the working channel of an endoscope. The powder is propelled by carbon dioxide gas, which allows it to cover a large surface area.

Indications

Hemospray is indicated for use in the control of non-variceal upper gastrointestinal bleeding. It can be used in patients with peptic ulcer disease, Mallory-Weiss syndrome, cancer, gastritis, Dieulafoy's lesion, and angiodysplasia. It can also be used in the lower gastrointestinal tract for conditions such as diverticular bleeding, post-polypectomy bleeding, and colitis.

Procedure

The procedure for using Hemospray involves the following steps:

1. The endoscope is inserted into the patient's mouth or rectum and advanced to the site of bleeding.
2. The Hemospray catheter is passed through the working channel of the endoscope.
3. The Hemospray device is activated, and the powder is sprayed onto the bleeding site.
4. The endoscope is withdrawn, and the patient is monitored for signs of rebleeding.

Risks and Complications

As with any medical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with the use of Hemospray. These may include allergic reaction to the powder, infection, perforation of the gastrointestinal tract, and rebleeding.

See Also

• Endoscopy
• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Mallory-Weiss syndrome

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