Can we really prevent gastrointestinal bleeding after head injury? Results of a recent audit.

This retrospective study looks at the severe head injury patients admitted to one unit in a year. Within this group, those with significant gastrointestinal bleeding were further studied to assess medical prophylaxis against this complication. A preliminary attempt is made to gauge whether such medication is appropriate, particularly with reference to H-2 antagonists. No firm conclusions can be drawn, but sufficient doubt remains to justify a prospective trial which is planned.