“Acute lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is one of the most common reasons for hospitalization in the United States due to a digestive disorder, accounting for over 100,000 admissions annually. Although historically LGIB has referred to a bleeding source originating distal to the ligament of Treitz, small bowel bleeding is considered a separate entity, with a distinct diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm. For the purposes of this clinical practice guideline, LGIB refers to hematochezia or bright red blood per rectum originating from a colorectal source.”


