Which factor is associated with the highest risk of rebleeding after endoscopic procedures?

The factor associated with the highest risk of rebleeding after endoscopic procedures is the presence of visible vessels with active bleeding. When a vessel is actively bleeding and identifiable during an endoscopic procedure, it indicates a higher likelihood of ongoing bleeding and a continuing source of hemorrhage.

Failure to adequately address visible vessels can result in inadequate hemostatic control, leading to a greater chance of rebleeding post-procedure. This situation often necessitates more intensive intervention—be it through additional cauterization, clipping, or other hemostatic techniques—to ensure that the bleeding source is effectively managed.

Other factors, while they may contribute to overall patient risk or postoperative complications, do not carry the same immediate and direct correlation to the risk of rebleeding as the presence of visible vessels. The urgency and clinical significance of active bleeding make it a critical concern during endoscopic management.