Laparoscopic Billroth II gastrectomy: a review.

The operation of Billroth II gastrectomy has not changed substantially in concept or technique since it was first performed in 1885 by Theodor Billroth. The advent of stapling has made the procedure faster for the surgeon but the operation has remained as painful and as traumatic for the patient. The totally intra-abdominal laparoscopic Billroth II gastrectomy offers a minimally invasive option that is remarkably less traumatic and more 'patient friendly'. Initial experience in this operation around the world has largely concentrated on resection for benign gastric ulcer but the possibility of resection for cancer is not inconceivable. Experience with a small experimental series of eight cases showed that this operation has many advantages over open surgery in terms of postoperative pain, quicker mobilization, fewer wound problems, better cosmesis and quicker discharge. No anastomotic leak, chest or wound complications were encountered. The main problem remains the cost of disposable stapling devices.