Which procedure is commonly used to visualize and assess peptic ulcers?

Upper GI endoscopy is the preferred procedure for visualizing and assessing peptic ulcers. This technique involves the use of a flexible tube with a camera on the end, allowing the physician to directly view the lining of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. During the procedure, not only can ulcers be identified, but biopsies can also be taken to check for malignancy or infection with H. pylori. The ability to visualize the ulcer directly and evaluate its characteristics, such as size and bleeding status, makes upper GI endoscopy a crucial diagnostic tool in the management of peptic ulcer disease.

Other methods such as colonoscopy are designed for examining the lower gastrointestinal tract and are not suitable for assessing peptic ulcers. MRI scans provide detailed images of soft tissues but are not typically used for this specific purpose. Plain abdominal X-rays can show gas patterns but do not provide adequate information to visualize ulcerations effectively.