A Study Comparing Billroth II With Roux-en-Y Reconstruction for Gastric Cancer

Roux-en-Y had fewer problems related to reflux of bile but a higher incidence of stasis in the Roux limb resulting in longer hospital stay. Some surgeon avoids doing Roux-en-Y is a triad of post operative symptoms including abdominal pain, vomiting and nausea called Roux-en-Y loop syndrome. Billroth II reconstruction is a simpler operation with only one anastomosis and faster operating time. This has implications while managing gastric cancer patients who may be malnourished and a simpler procedure may have lesser risk of complications and yield better outcomes. Billroth II has increased reflux associated problem like esophagitis and gastritis, risk of afferent loop and dumping syndrome. Long term nutritional outcomes are similar for both procedures.