Technetium-labeled erythrocyte scintigraphy in acute gastrointestinal bleeding.

Purpose: Optimal management of acute gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding requires accurate localization of the bleeding source. The role of technetium-labeled erythrocyte scintigraphy (tagged red blood cell (TRBC) scan) in evaluating acute GI bleeding has been controversial, though recent literature suggests that it is a reliable tool and may be used as a first-line diagnostic test. We evaluated our recent experience with and the clinical outcomes of the TRBC scan in patients presenting with acute GI bleeding.