Complications of vagotomy and pyloroplasty

Vagotomy and pyloroplasty are associated with technical complications, the most important being rupture of the esophagus, splenic injury, leak at the pyloroplasty, and intra-abdominal bleeding. This operation can also be associated with other complications including epigastric fullness, dysphagia, vomiting of food, bilious vomiting, dumping, and diarrhea. The historical background and specific complications of each procedure are discussed.