Nd:YAG laser endoscopic photocoagulation for upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

To appraise the success of neodymium:yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser photocoagulation for the endoscopic control of major upper gastrointestinal bleeding, 19 patients who fulfilled all the criteria of this study underwent laser therapy. Initial hemostasis was achieved in 17 patients (89%). The two patients continuing to bleed underwent surgery but died. Rebleeding occurred in five patients, with laser photocoagulation successful in two and surgery in another two. Nd:YAG lasers offer a safe, effective method for controlling bleeding and, it is hoped, will decrease the morbidity and need for emergency surgery.