Gastric Ulcer |
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| Authors: | Samuel F. Marshall |
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| Affiliation: | The Lahey Clinic, Boston |
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| Abstract: | Because 10 to 20 per cent of gastric ulcers prove to be malignant at operation, it is important to decide clinically whether a gastric ulcer is definitely benign or has a strong potential of being malignant. The size of the ulcer, its location and the patients age are not sufficient criteria for such a differential diagnosis. Most patients with gastric ulcer should be hospitalized for a trial of medical treatment. If the ulcer fails to heal, if it recurs, or if there is occult blood in the stool, surgical treatment is indicated. About 50 per cent of patients with gastric ulcer will need operation. |
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