Nutritional effects of postgastrectomy reconstructions

To compare the nutritional effects of two modes of reconstruction after total gastrectomy, a Hunt-Lawrence pouch was constructed in five mongrel dogs, whereas five other dogs had a simple Roux-Y esophagojejunostomy performed. Total body weight, daily food intake, serum albumin values, and intestinal absorption of carbohydrates, fats, and amino acids were evaluated in both groups over a period of 3 months. All values decreased postoperatively when compared with the preoperative values; however, there was no significant difference between the two groups. This study suggests that there is no nutritional benefit from a Hunt-Lawrence pouch over a simple Roux-Y esophagojejunostomy after total gastrectomy.