Von Haberer-Finney gastrectomy revisited

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Oncology
• Digestive System Surgery

Background:

• The Von Haberer and Finney independently introduced the end-to-side gastroduodenostomy technique for gastrointestinal reconstruction.
• This procedure is often utilized in conjunction with hemigastrectomy for managing various duodenal ulcer complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clinically appraise the efficacy and safety of the Von Haberer-Finney gastrectomy in patients with duodenal ulcers.
• To evaluate long-term outcomes, including recurrence rates and potential complications.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective analysis of 113 patients who underwent the Von Haberer-Finney gastrectomy between 1967 and 1982.
• Patients presented with indications including intractability, hemorrhage, perforation, and obstruction.
• Truncal vagotomy was performed in most cases, with variations based on the primary indication.

Main Results:

• The study reported a low postoperative mortality rate of 2.7% (3 deaths).
• No clinical evidence of recurrent ulcers or dumping syndrome was observed during follow-up.
• Five patients, all chronic alcoholics, were noted to be underweight; other complications were minimal.

Conclusions:

• The Von Haberer-Finney gastrectomy offers several advantages, including direct duodenal inspection, preserved gastrointestinal continuity, and prevention of duodenal stump perforation.
• The technique minimizes the risk of afferent loop syndrome and is less likely to cause iron deficiency anemia.
• This procedure represents a viable and advantageous option for gastrointestinal reconstruction in selected duodenal ulcer patients.