Long-term results of hyperselective vagotomy for duodenal ulcer

Although considered by many as the operation of choice in the treatment of duodenal ulcer, hyperselective vagotomy without drainage is not unanimously accepted because little is known about its long-term efficiency in preventing ulcer recurrence. The long-term results of 203 patients with duodenal ulcer, treated by hyperselective vagotomy between 1974 and 1983 at the Hôpital Laval, are reported. Patients were followed at yearly intervals and questionnaires were used to determine whatever benefits they perceived. The procedure was found to be a safe one with an uncomplicated postoperative course. The overall recurrence rate was 12% over a mean follow-up of 64 months. Recurrences may occur 5 or more years after surgery. The operative technique is important in preventing recurrence. Dissection of the last 6 cm of esophagus lowered the recurrence rate at 5 years from 21% to 9%. Only four patients required reoperation. The majority of recurrences consisted of a single episode, the ulcer being easily controlled by short-course medical treatment. The authors found that 94% of patients were satisfied with the results of the operation.