Complications of Fiberoptic Endoscopy. I. Esophagoscopy and Gastroscopy.

Flexible fiberoptic endoscopes are being used increasingly for direct visualization and biopsy of lesions in the upper gastrointestinal tract. Contrary to earlier expectations, however, the incidence of complications has not diminished despite the technical advantages of modern flexible instruments over semirigid endoscopes; indeed, the mortality of fibergastroscopic perforation has almost quadrupled compared to standard gastroscopy. The authors cite their experience with the spectrum of complications associated with fiberoptic esophagoscopy and gastroscopy. Radiological recognition and evaluation of these iatrogenic incidents is of paramount importance.