Endoscopy in upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage.

Endoscopy was performed in 194 patients who presented with upper gastrointestinal haemorrhage from January 1986 through June 1987. A cause of bleeding was identified in 187 cases (96.4%). The most common cause was duodenal ulcer which was evident in 84 cases (43.3%). Endoscopic proof of bleeding was seen in 122 patients (65.2%) while an assumed cause was designated in 65 cases (34.8%). Endoscopic evidence of bleeding was more evident in the group examined within 24 hours of admission (70.0%) compared with the group endoscoped after 24 hours of admission (21.0%) (p < 0.001). Our results favour early endoscopy. Logistic problems are discussed and a combined medical-surgical gastrointestina1 endoscopy service suggested.