Retrospective analysis of iatrogenic Mallory-Weiss tears occurring during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy.
OBJECTIVE
This study was made to determine the incidence and natural history of iatrogenic Mallory-Weiss tears.


METHODS
We retrospectively analyzed twelve cases of iatrogenic Mallory-Weiss tears identified from 2,461 consecutive upper gastrointestinal endoscopies performed at our institution over a period of twenty-two months.


RESULTS
In all cases, bleeding stopped spontaneously without the need of blood transfusions, endoscopic hemostasis therapy or any other interventions. Eight patients (67%) had retching or struggling during the procedure. Hiatus hernias were noted in three patients (25%).


CONCLUSIONS
Iatrogenic Mallory-Weiss tears are rare and generally have a benign course. They tend to occur mostly in patients who have experienced excessive retching or struggling during endoscopy.
Montalvo
R D
RD
Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, USA.
Lee
M
M
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D016099:Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007049:Iatrogenic Disease / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D008309:Mallory-Weiss Syndrome / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies