[Emergency endoscopy after operation of the upper gastro-intestinal tract: problems and risks (author's transl)]

Upper gastro-intestinal bleeding or other complications after operations on this tract can lead to grave additional risk for the patient, especially in the early postoperative phase. Because of its high degree of diagnostic accuracy, emergency endoscopy is in most cases of decisive importance in planning the type (conservative or surgical) and timing of any necessary treatment. Special investigative techniques as well as the early use of endoscopy in 97 patients achieved a high rate of success at a low risk to the patients. Indications, results and risks of emergency endoscopy of the upper gastro-intestinal tract in the late postoperative phase are similar to those for the non-operated patient.