Gastric ulcer: the importance of follow-up care

One hundred forty-four gastric ulcer patients in an inner city hospital were studied retrospectively over a five year period. Emphasis was placed on patient follow-up after discharge. The length of hospitalization and the mortality were higher for the surgical group; however, the recurrence rate was higher in the medically treated group. Almost half the patients were followed for less than six months. Reasons are given for this poor follow-up. The high recurrence rates necessitate close follow-up for a prolonged period.