Redistribution of gastric Helicobacter pylori after surgery for duodenal ulcer.

OBJECTIVES

To study the distribution of H. pylori in the stomach before and after truncal vagotomy and drainage (TV + D) for chronic duodenal ulcer.

METHODS

Twenty two consecutive patients studied prospectively. H. pylori positivity detected by urease test and histology (Giemsa stain). One or both tests positive indicated positive H. pylori status. Biopsies taken from antrum, body, fundus and stoma (postoperatively) to document H. pylori status before and 6 months after TV + D.

RESULTS

Antral prevalence of H. pylori significantly decreased after surgery while fundal colonization significantly increased. No change was seen in body of stomach.

CONCLUSION

There is significant redistribution of H. pylori after TV + D. This has important diagnostic implications in evaluation of postoperative symptoms.