ABSTRACT
The number of upper gastrointestinal operations for peptic ulcer disease has declined sharply since the introduction of H2 receptor antagonists in the 1970s. Anatomical and physiological derangements are common in the first few weeks after surgery, and depend on the extent of surgery. Division of the vagus nerve and ablation or bypass of the pylorus are the most important factors contributing to postgastrectomy syndromes. Overall, 20% of patients are left with long-term symptoms.
