Is a Follow-Up Endoscopy Necessary After Gastric Ulcer Treatment?

Gastric ulcers typically require a follow-up endoscopy after treatment. Even though symptoms may improve within two months of starting therapy, the actual healing progress cannot be accurately assessed without visual examination. An endoscopy allows doctors to confirm whether the ulcer has fully healed or if further intervention is needed.

There are several reasons why a follow-up endoscopy is important:

1. If the ulcer hasn't completely healed after two months, additional treatment may be necessary. This could involve adjusting medications or extending the treatment period.

2. If there's no improvement, it could indicate underlying conditions beyond a simple gastric ulcer, such as Crohn's disease or intestinal ulcers. In such cases, a broader diagnostic approach and modified treatment plan are essential.

3. On the other hand, if the ulcer has fully healed, the maintenance treatment strategy will differ, often involving less aggressive medication protocols.

Failing to perform a follow-up endoscopy can lead to undetected complications. Severe ulcers can result in serious issues like gastric perforation or obstruction of the pylorus or duodenum, which may require surgical removal of the affected area. Early detection through endoscopy can prevent life-threatening outcomes and improve long-term digestive health.