Peptic ulcer as encountered in a surgical unit in South India. A review of 198 cases

Geographical aspects of peptic ulcer surgery

The geographic distribution of duodenal ulcer and its characteristics in rural areas of high incidence in developing countries are reviewed. The choice of surgical procedures is discussed in light of the bulky diet and nutritional problems of these countries. A vagotomy procedure is advised for duodenal ulcer and a Billroth I gastrectomy for gastric ulcers of the body of the stomach.

Surgical survey of peptic ulcer in South India

Between 1944 and 1960, 1138 consecutive patients operated on in the Christian Medical College Hospital, Vellore, for peptic ulcer were documented. Deaths within 1 month of operation gave an overall mortality of 3.3 per cent. Six hundred and seventy-eight patients with duodenal or gastric ulcer were operated on by one of three standard procedures, and were followed up for 5 to 15 years after operation. Relief of symptoms was obtained in 80 per cent of patients. Vagotomy and gastrojejunostomy was found to be the best standard operation.