A novel operative technique on proximal gastrectomy reconstructed by interposition of a jejunal J pouch with preservation of the vagal nerve and lower esophageal sphincter.

Objective: This article describes the surgical techniques and postoperative status for proximal gastrectomy reconstructed by interposition of a jejunal J pouch with preservation of the vagal nerve and lower esophageal sphincter.

Methods: We have performed a new technique for reducing postgastrectomy sequelae such as reflux esophagitis, early dumping syndrome, and microgastria in early gastric cancer located in the proximal third of the stomach. The technique consists of proximal gastrectomy with preservation of the hepatic, pyloric, celiac branch of the vagal nerve, and abdominal esophagus (lower esophageal sphincter), and reconstruction by interposition of a jejunal J pouch. To reserve pyloric function, pyloroplasty can be omitted by preservation of the pyloric branch from the vagal nerve. To restore loss of reservoir function, the reconstruction is performed with an interposed jejunal J pouch. Sacrifice of the mesenteric arcades is kept to a minimum to preserve the autonomic nerve and blood flow in the mesentery.

Results: All of the patients who underwent this operation were able to eat an adequate amount of food at 6 months after surgery and they were satisfied with their postoperative status. And that, we have not experienced postgastrectomy disorders such the dumping syndrome and reflux esophagitis.

Conclusions: Therefore, this method is useful for preventing the postoperative disorders in patients with early gastric cancer located in the proximal third of the stomach.