Total gastrectomy for gastric carcinoma: a retrospective study of different procedures and assessment of a new technique of gastric reconstruction.

A retrospective study of the value of reconstructive surgery after total gastrectomy of gastric carcinoma in 118 patients who underwent different types of reconstructive procedures is presented. Dissatisfaction with established methods of reconstruction led to the development of a new technique. The new method was associated with less regurgitation, less dumping and functioned as a reservoir without undue delay in emptying time. It was associated with an improved quality of life in the postoperative period, with minimal dumping symptoms, maintenance of weight and the ability to return to work. The mortality and morbidity of the new method are acceptable and it thus offers not only an improved reconstructive procedure for total gastrectomy after resection for gastric cancer, but offers potential for reconstructive surgery after total gastrectomy carried out for other reasons.