STUDY OF FACTORS INFLUENCING MORTALITY-RATES FROM GASTROINTESTINAL HEMORRHAGE

  • 1 January 1976
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 45  (180) , 533-550
Abstract
The characteristics of a group of 300 patients were outlined and causes of death examined. In patients diagnosed as having peptic ulcer or erosions, the major causes of death were thrombotic vascular disease and surgical complications. Current management of gastrointestinal bleeding was examined. Gastric resection should be avoided when possible, and procedures which might reduce intravascular clotting should be considered. The advisability of immediate surgery was questioned and a case made for considering prolonged resuscitation. A detailed analysis of European mortality rates was included, with particular reference to older patients. Mortality rates continue to improve, and early diagnosis may be an important factor. Not only were nearly half the patients studied over 60 yr old, but the risk of hemorrhage was much greater in the older patients. Gastrointestinal bleeding was definitely more of a geriatric than an adolescent problem.

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