Perforation of peptic ulcers related to fiberoptic endoscopy.

Three cases of perforation of peptic ulcers related to either fiberoptic endoscopy or esophageal dilation are presented. A correct preoperative diagnosis can be made by recognising the onset of acute abdominal symptoms and signs after an uneventful fiberoptic examination or dilation of stricture in patients with preexisting ulcer symptoms. The complication is especially likely to occur in peptic ulcer disease coexisting with esophageal stricture, possible due to air trapping in the stomach.