RESTORATION OF GASTRODUODENAL CONTINUITY

The feasibility of reoperating to restore gastrointestinal continuity was studied in 30 patients who had suffered disabling complications after gastroenterostomy. The largest group consisted of 13 patients in whom the original operation was vagotomy and gastrojejunostomy. All of the 30 patients had symptoms so severe as to prevent them from carrying on gainful occupations, and in each case medical treatment had been given a thorough trial. The corrective operation consisted of closing the gastrojejunal stoma and frequently included end-to-end anastomosis for repair of the jejunum and end-to-end anastomosis between stomach and duodenum. Only one patient failed to obtain relief by the corrective operation; eight others were but partially relieved and required continued medical or dietary treatment. Twenty-one became free of symptoms, were relieved of the need for medication, and were able to return to work.