Surgery treatment of duodenal ulcer

Surgical interventions in the inpatient department are covered by a loyalty program, which makes treatment even more affordable.

A duodenal ulcer is initially treated with medication. Surgery is prescribed in cases of large or multiple ulcers, the development of complications, or lack of response to medication.

At "Oxford Medical", both emergency and planned surgeries for duodenal ulcers are performed. Depending on the indications, the following methods are used:

• Laparoscopic technique – a minimally invasive operation that provides access to the organ through several punctures in the abdominal wall.

• Laparotomic technique – a classic open-access operation, mainly required for patients in acute condition.

The surgical inpatient department is equipped with new expert-class equipment. Thanks to this, as well as the involvement of a team of experienced surgeons led by a Doctor of Medical Sciences, each patient receives high-quality medical care.

In case of rupture, penetration or internal bleeding, urgent surgery is required. In other cases, treatment is carried out as planned after a thorough diagnosis and assessment of potential benefits and risks.

Planned surgeries are most often performed laparoscopically. Three to four punctures up to 1 cm in diameter are made in the abdominal wall. Through one of them, carbon dioxide is introduced into the abdominal cavity, raising the abdominal wall and creating space for surgical manipulations. Through the other punctures, a laparoscope (a device with a miniature video camera) and endoscopic instruments are inserted.

The image from the laparoscope is transmitted to the monitor screen and magnified many times. Thus, the surgeon can carefully examine the mucous membrane of the organ, determine the boundaries of the ulcer, and perform the operation with precision.

Advantages of laparoscopy include:

• minimal damage to healthy tissues;

• reduced risk of complications;

• shorter hospitalization periods;

• easier and faster rehabilitation period.

Despite all the advantages of laparoscopy, some patients require open-access surgery. In this case, an incision of about 15–20 cm long is made on the peritoneum. In case of complications, this allows rapid localization of the source of bleeding, stopping it, and performing other necessary manipulations.

For planned treatment of an ulcer, depending on the indications, one of the following surgeries is performed:

• Vagotomy – cutting branches of the vagus nerve that stimulate hydrochloric acid secretion. The operation reduces stomach acidity, accelerating ulcer healing alongside medication therapy.

• Pyloroplasty – widening of the opening between the stomach and duodenum. Performed in case of pyloric narrowing.

• Intestinal resection – removal of a part of the organ followed by suturing its ends. Performed in complex cases when other methods are ineffective.

At "Oxford Medical", experienced surgeons and gastroenterologists work. Before prescribing surgery, the patient undergoes thorough examination. As a rule, it includes abdominal ultrasound, contrast X-ray and/or computed tomography, as well as gastroscopy – an endoscopic examination of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.

The availability of new equipment allows for the most accurate diagnosis and determination of whether surgery is needed and which type. Surgical treatment of ulcers is recommended only in case of complications or other indications.

Operations are performed in a high-tech surgical inpatient facility. It is equipped with medical technology from the best European and American manufacturers. This enables surgeons to perform laparoscopic and open surgeries of any complexity.

After surgery, the patient is placed in the intensive care unit. It is equipped with devices for monitoring and supporting all vital functions of the body. After 2–3 hours, if the patient’s condition is stable, they are transferred to the inpatient ward.

For 1–2 days, bed rest and a strict diet are usually recommended. The patient is allowed to sit up, stand, or eat only after the doctor’s approval.

Hospitalization may last from 2–3 days to several weeks, depending on the complexity of the surgery and the patient’s condition.

To ensure successful recovery and prevent complications, the patient is prescribed drug therapy: antibiotics, painkillers, and others as indicated.

Soon after being allowed to get up, the patient is advised to move more: walk around the ward, do light breathing exercises, etc. Physical activity speeds up rehabilitation and reduces the risk of postoperative pneumonia.

Full recovery and return to normal life may take 1.5–3 months.

After intestinal surgery, it is important to follow the doctor’s dietary recommendations to ensure proper healing, minimize complications, and support the body during recovery.

Patients are usually advised:

• on day 2 – drink water by teaspoon (up to 0.5 glass per day);

• on day 3 – also drink strong tea and broth (up to 0.5 l per day);

• on day 4 – drink up to 4 glasses of liquid per day in 8–12 portions, and eat jelly, yogurt, sour cream;

• on day 5 – add pureed soups, cottage cheese, semolina porridge;

• on day 7 – add well-pureed boiled meat;

• on days 9–10 – switch to diet No. 1a, recommended for ulcer disease.

Following the diet is extremely important, as digestion produces enzymes and bile, which in the early postoperative period can irritate the intestinal walls and cause complications. Considering this, the doctor always gives the patient clear recommendations, which may vary slightly depending on individual characteristics.

If complications develop, urgent surgery is required. Symptoms may include severe pain, high fever, blood in the stool, general weakness and confusion, and frequent vomiting after eating.

In the early 2000s, it was proven that the main cause of ulcer disease is infection with Helicobacter pylori bacteria. They are detected in 90% of patients during diagnosis. However, not all infected individuals develop the disease. Additional risk factors include hereditary predisposition, pancreatitis, unbalanced diet, metabolic disorders, long-term use of hormonal or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and alcohol abuse.

To reduce the risk of ulcer development and recurrence, specialists recommend:

• eat balanced meals regularly in small portions (5–6 times a day);

• limit fatty, fried, smoked, spicy foods that irritate the stomach lining;

• prefer boiled, baked, stewed, or steamed food;

• avoid alcoholic beverages;

• minimize coffee, sweet sodas, etc.;

• immediately consult a doctor if abdominal pain or other symptoms occur.

The cost of duodenal ulcer surgery may vary depending on its complexity and the presence or absence of complications, as well as whether it is performed laparoscopically or through open access.

You can find out the cost of surgical treatment at «Oxford Medical» here. To receive more accurate information taking into account individual characteristics, make an appointment at a time convenient for you.