Surgical resection in the treatment of bulbostenosis.

The aim of the study was to evaluate surgical methods used in the treatment of gastric outlet obstruction. From 1983 till 1994, 151 patients were surgically treated for gastric outlet stenosis at the Dubrava University Hospital. There were 120 males and 31 females, mean age 54.13 +/- 13.07 years. The treatment was evaluated by a modified Visick index. The most commonly surgical method used was Billroth I gastric resection. Postoperative complications developed in 8% of the patients, while early postoperative mortality was 2%. The authors compiled data on the postoperative course for 46 patients, 20 of whom were examined gastroscopically and radiologically. One recurrence which required reoperation was verified. Ninety-four percent of these patients were evaluated as Visick I and II. Billroth I gastric resection yields good results in treating gastric outlet obstruction, but postoperative complications and early postoperative mortality of 2% make it less suitable than proximal selective vagotomy with dilatation or duodenoplasty.