Pyloroplasty
Definition
Pyloroplasty is a surgical procedure to widen the opening in the lower part of the stomach (pylorus) so that the stomach contents can empty into the small intestine (duodenum).
The pylorus is a thick, muscular area. When it thickens, food is not able to pass through.
See: Pyloric stenosis
Alternative Names
Pyloromyotomy; Pyloric stenosis repair; Pyloroplasty
Description
The surgery is done while you are under general anesthesia (asleep and pain-free). The surgeon makes a cut around the belly button or in the upper right part of the belly. If the surgery is done laparoscopically, three smaller cuts are used.
The surgery involves cutting through some of the thickened muscle to relieve the narrowing (stenosis). The cut through the muscle is then closed horizontally to keep the pylorus open and allow the stomach to empty.
The surgery usually takes 1 - 2 hours.
Why the Procedure Is Performed
Pyloric stenosis is caused by a thickened pylorus muscle. It is usually found in infants.
Pyloroplasty is the only effective treatment for pyloric stenosis. It may also be used to treat certain patients with peptic ulcers or other types of gastric disease that cause a blockage of the stomach opening.
Review Date: 11/5/2010
Reviewed By: Shabir Bhimji MD, PhD, Specializing in General Surgery, Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Midland, TX. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Alternative Names
Pyloromyotomy; Pyloric stenosis repair; Pyloroplasty
After the Procedure
Most patients make a complete and quick recovery. The average hospital stay is 2 - 3 days. Most patients can gradually return to eating a regular diet in a few weeks.
Outlook (Prognosis)
After surgery, the health care team will monitor your breathing, blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate. Most patients can go home within 24 hours.
The results after pyloroplasty are excellent.
Review Date: 11/5/2010
Reviewed By: Shabir Bhimji MD, PhD, Specializing in General Surgery, Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Midland, TX. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Alternative Names
Pyloromyotomy; Pyloric stenosis repair; Pyloroplasty
Risks
Risks of anesthesia include the following:
- Reactions to medications
- Problems breathing
Risks of any operation include the following:
Risks of this procedure:
- Damage to the intestine
- Hernia
- Leakage of stomach contents
- Long-term diarrhea
- Malnutrition
- Tear in the lining of surrounding organs (mucosal perforation)
Review Date: 11/5/2010
Reviewed By: Shabir Bhimji MD, PhD, Specializing in General Surgery, Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Midland, TX. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Review Date: 11/5/2010
Reviewed By: Shabir Bhimji MD, PhD, Specializing in General Surgery, Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery, Midland, TX. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.