Lesser curve necrosis following proximal cell vagotomy for gastric ulcer. A case report

A case of avascular necrosis of the lesser curve of the stomach following a highly selective vagotomy (HSV) for a gastric ulcer is reported. It is fortunately rare, but is a frightening complication. The necrosis, which is presumably ischaemic in origin, is caused by total devascularization of the lesser curvature of the stomach. The complication is usually diagnosed late and has a considerable mortality.