Case reportIntraoperative localization of arteriovenous malformation of a jejunum with combined use of angiographic methods and indocyanine green injection: Report of a new technique

- The localization of small intestine sources of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding is a challenge.
- The use of indocyanine green (ICG) is effective in aiding intraoperative localization.
- The ICG fluorescence imaging can visualize the lesion as an arteriovenous malformation.

IntroductionThe localization of small intestine sources of obscure gastrointestinal bleeding has been a challenge. The use of indocyanine green (ICG) is effective in aiding intraoperative localization if a bleeding lesion is identified on angiography.Case presentationA 95-year-old Japanese man presented with hematochezia. Selective angiography of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) established an arteriovenous malformation (AVM). ICG injection into the feeding vessel was administered intraoperatively, and the demarcated segment of the jejunum was resected.DiscussionDiluted ICG was injected in the SMA by intraoperative angiography, and the region could be easily and clearly visualized by the ICG fluorescence imaging; small patchy poolings of ICG were recognized. Ultimately, the region was diagnosed as an AVM of the jejunum. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported description of this technique.ConclusionOur new technique of combining selective angiography with intraoperative ICG injection and focused enterectomy is a safe, accurate, and cost-effective treatment.