Massive gastro-duodenal haemorrhage

The etiology and management of massive gastro-duodenal haemorrage is discussed, on the basis of findings in 225 cases. (AU)

Surgical treatment of chronic peptic ulcer in Jamaica

In Jamaica, patients attending the Surgical Department of the University College Hospital of the West Indies for peptic ulcer have been mainly in the lower income group. The symptomatology of the uncomplicated ulcer is the same as in other countries but often the patient does not seek medical attention until there is severe stenosis. The indications for operation are the same as in other countries. Apart from simple suture of the perforated ulcer, sub-total gastric resection and gastro-jejunostomy have been the standard operations. The technical difficulties are discussed. Follow-up has been short but so far the results have been good. Persistent post-resection symptoms so commonly found in Great Britain (Henley 1953) have been conspicuous by their absence. Nearly every patient has gained weight. The probable causes of anaemia which is usually transient have been discussed. The dangers of gastric replacement operation in the treatment of peptic ulcer in the Jamaican patient have been stressed. (Summary)