Acute Complications Following Transabdominal Gastric Resection

Within recent decades rapid strides have been made in the surgical treatment of diseases of the stomach and duodenum. The clinical application of an ever-increasing knowledge of upper gastrointestinal physiology and the utilization of modern ancillary methods of supporting the surgical patient have contributed to a progressive decrease in morbidity and mortality following gastric resection.

Despite this favorable outlook, the surgeon still must be prepared to face the possibility of long-term unfavorable side-effects as well as immediate postoperative complications following the total or partial removal of the stomach. Considerable emphasis has been placed upon the factors associated with the ultimate well-being of the postgastrectomy patient.^1,4-6,10 No one can deny that the risk of dumping, secondary anemia, altered nutritional states, and even psychiatric maladjustment must be given grave consideration before a person is subjected to gastric surgery. However, the far-sighted appraisal of the gastrectomized patient must not draw attention away