Antrectomy is a surgical procedure involving the resection of the antrum, which is the lower portion of the stomach that plays a crucial role in the digestive process. This procedure is typically performed when a patient suffers from various gastric conditions, such as peptic ulcers, gastric cancer, or significant bleeding. During an antrectomy, the surgeon removes the antrum along with a portion of the pyloric canal, which is the section of the stomach leading to the duodenum. This resection helps to reduce gastric acid secretion as the antrum is responsible for producing certain hormones that stimulate acid production. By performing an antrectomy, medical professionals aim to alleviate symptoms related to these conditions, such as chronic pain, nausea, and vomiting, providing patients with a better quality of life. An antrectomy may be conducted as an open surgery or through minimally invasive techniques, depending on the patient's condition and the surgeon's expertise. Following the procedure, patients generally experience changes in their digestive process, as the removal of the antrum alters the stomach's ability to mix and grind food effectively. Postoperative care is crucial and includes monitoring for complications such as infection, bleeding, or changes in bowel habits. Patients may require adjustments to their diet, transitioning to softer foods and smaller, more frequent meals to accommodate their new digestive function. Long-term follow-up care is also important to assess any complications and ensure proper recovery. Antrectomy may be performed alone or in conjunction with other surgical procedures, such as vagotomy, where the vagus nerve is cut to further reduce acid secretion. Overall, antrectomy represents a significant intervention aimed at addressing serious gastric conditions, necessitating careful preoperative evaluation and postoperative management to maximize patient outcomes and minimize complications.
