What investigations are recommended for a patient with recurrent episodes of haematemesis?

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 16 August 2025Updated: 16 August 2025 Guideline-Aligned (High Confidence) Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

For a patient experiencing recurrent episodes of haematemesis, a non-urgent, direct access upper gastrointestinal endoscopy should be considered . If the patient re-bleeds after initial treatment for upper gastrointestinal bleeding, a repeat endoscopy should be offered with a view to further endoscopic treatment or emergency surgery . A repeat endoscopy should also be considered for all patients at high risk of re-bleeding, particularly if there is doubt about adequate haemostasis at the first endoscopy .

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