Pyloroplasty is surgery to widen the opening in the lower part of the stomach (pylorus) so that stomach contents can empty into the small intestine (duodenum).

The pylorus is a thick, muscular area. When it thickens, food cannot pass through.

Pyloroplasty

The surgery is done while you are under general anesthesia (asleep and pain-free).

The surgeon makes a cut in the belly area. If the surgery is done using a laparoscope, three smaller cuts are made instead.

The surgeon cuts through some of the thickened muscle so it becomes wider.

The cut is then closed in a way that keeps the pylorus open. This allows the stomach to empty.

The surgery usually takes 1 - 2 hours.

Pyloroplasty is used to treat complications in patients with peptic ulcers or other stomach problems that cause a blockage of the stomach opening.

Risks of anesthesia include:

• Reactions to medications
• Problems breathing

Risks of any surgery include:

• Bleeding
• Infection

Risks of this procedure:

• Damage to the intestine
• Hernia
• Leakage of stomach contents
• Long-term diarrhea
• Malnutrition
• Tear in the lining of nearby organs (mucosal perforation)

Most patients recover quickly and completely. The average hospital stay is 2 - 3 days. Most patients can slowly begin a regular diet in a few weeks.

After surgery, the health care team will monitor your breathing, blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate. Most patients can go home within 24 hours.