Monopolar soft-mode coagulation using hemostatic forceps for peptic ulcer bleeding

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Endoscopic Hemostasis
• Surgical Technology

Background:

• Upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage from bleeding peptic ulcers presents treatment challenges with conventional endoscopic methods.
• Monopolar electrocoagulation with a soft-coagulation system and hemostatic forceps (soft coagulation) is a newer technique.
• Soft coagulation has been utilized to prevent bleeding during endoscopic submucosal dissection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of soft coagulation for treating bleeding peptic ulcers.
• To assess the hemostasis rates and rebleeding incidence associated with soft coagulation therapy.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective analysis of 39 patients with peptic ulcers treated with soft coagulation between January 2005 and March 2010.
• Emergency treatment utilized an ERBE soft-mode coagulation system with hemostatic forceps.
• Initial hemostasis, rebleeding, and ultimate hemostasis rates were analyzed, with second-look endoscopy performed to assess efficacy.

Main Results:

• Initial hemostasis was achieved in 37 out of 39 patients (95%).
• The study included 31 men and 8 women, with a mean age of 68.3 years.
• Two patients experienced rebleeding but were successfully retreated with soft coagulation.

Conclusions:

• Monopolar soft coagulation is a feasible and safe endoscopic treatment for bleeding peptic ulcers.
• The technique demonstrates high initial hemostasis rates.
• Soft coagulation offers a reliable option for managing peptic ulcer bleeding.