Stomach ulcers are sores that occur in the lining of the stomach. They are usually caused by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori or long-term use of NSAIDs. Most stomach ulcers can be cured with medication. However, in some cases stomach ulcer surgery may be necessary.
In Which Cases Is Gastric Ulcer Surgery Performed?
Stomach ulcers are sores that form on the inner surface of the stomach and can usually be controlled with medication. However, in some severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgery becomes necessary, especially in patients who develop complications.
A stomach ulcer damages the blood vessels in the stomach or duodenum. This can lead to serious bleeding. If bleeding cannot be controlled or continues to occur, surgery may be necessary.
Advanced ulcers can completely erode the stomach wall, causing a perforation. In this case, stomach contents leak into the abdominal cavity and a serious infection called peritonitis can develop. Perforation is a life-threatening situation that requires immediate surgical intervention.
Long-term ulcers can cause scar tissue to form at the stomach outlet (pyloric region). This prevents the stomach contents from passing into the intestines, causing gastric obstruction. The patient experiences constant vomiting and weight loss. In such cases, surgical treatment is applied.
Some ulcers do not heal despite drug treatment or recur frequently. Ulcers that do not heal, especially if Helicobacter pylori infection is treated, may require surgery.
In rare cases, stomach ulcers may be associated with stomach cancer. In suspicious cases, biopsy and surgery may be necessary. Stomach ulcer surgery It is usually applied as a last resort. It can be done with different techniques depending on the patient's condition.
How is Gastric Ulcer Surgery Performed?
Surgery is performed in cases that do not respond to drug therapy or in severe cases. The method of surgery varies depending on the patient's condition and the extent of damage caused by the ulcer. Today, laparoscopic (closed) and open surgical methods are used.
Before the surgery, the patient undergoes a detailed examination. The location and size of the stomach ulcer are determined with imaging methods such as blood tests, endoscopy, x-ray or MRI. The patient's diet and medication are adjusted before the surgery.
In vagotomy, the vagus nerve that controls stomach acid is cut. This reduces stomach acid production. Truncal vagotomy or selective vagotomy may be performed.
In severe cases, the ulcerated stomach tissue is removed and the remaining stomach is connected to the intestine. Partial Gastrectomy is usually preferred for suspected cancer or recurrent ulcers.
If there is a narrowing at the stomach outlet (pyloric region), pyloroplasty is performed to widen it. This procedure makes it easier for the stomach to empty into the intestines.
After the surgery, the patient is kept in the hospital for a few days. In the first few days, a liquid diet is started and then solid foods are gradually introduced. Depending on the type of surgery, the patient can return to normal life within a few weeks. Stomach ulcer surgery, can be life-saving in severe cases and improves the patient's quality of life.
What is the Post-Gastric Ulcer Surgery Process?
Stomach ulcer surgery The recovery process after surgery varies depending on the surgical technique used and the patient's general health. However, there are some important points that patients should pay attention to after surgery.
The patient is initially kept in the hospital for a few days. During this process, oral feeding is not allowed in the first hours, and fluids are given intravenously. Intestinal movements are checked in the first 24-48 hours and liquids are started. Painkillers are given for pain management.
Patients who have laparoscopic surgery generally recover more quickly. Those who have open surgery may have a slightly longer hospital stay, but this can vary depending on other factors.
A special diet is applied after the surgery because the stomach is sensitive. Liquid and soft foods are consumed. Oily, spicy and gas-producing foods should be avoided. Frequent meals with small portions are recommended.
The risk of Dumping Syndrome should be taken into consideration in order to avoid sudden drops in blood sugar and nausea after meals. Eating fast should not be eaten.
Heavy exercise should be avoided for the first few weeks. Light walks can speed up recovery. The patient can return to normal life within 4-6 weeks after surgery.
Nausea and digestive problems may occur in the first weeks. Dizziness, sweating and stomach discomfort may occur due to rapid stomach emptying. Rarely, serious complications such as stomach bleeding or infection may occur.
Regular doctor check-ups and compliance with the diet, stomach ulcer surgery It is of great importance in the recovery process after surgery. Adopting a healthy lifestyle helps the process to be easier and healthier.
