Motility of the pouch correlates with quality of life after total gastrectomy

Background. Jejunal pouch reconstruction is used to provide reservoir function after total gastrectomy, but controversy remains regarding pouch functions and quality of life (QOL). In this study, pouch motility was studied in conjunction with postoperative QOL. Methods. Pouch motility of 23 patients with jejunal pouch interposition after total gastrectomy was examined by manometry under fasting conditions and by an emptying test using dual-scintigraphy under postprandial conditions. Residual food was graded by endoscopic examinations. QOL was evaluated using the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index, and a stasis- or dumping-related symptom score. Results. The pouch showed interdigestive contractile activity. Bursts of contractile activity occurred frequently and were long-lasting compared with the migrating motor complex phase III of the control jejunum. The percentage of time of contractile bursts correlated with postprandial pouch emptying (liquid: R-2 = 0.229, P < .03; solid: R-2 = 0.243, P < .02). Patients with little or no residual food had more percentage of time of contractile bursts than those with moderate residual food (P < .01). The percentage of time of contractile bursts was correlated with the Gastrointestinal Quality of Life Index score (R-2 = 0.262, P < .02), stasis-related symptoms (R-2 = 0.279, P < .01), and dumping-related symptoms (R-2 = 0.218, P < .03). Conclusions. An interposed jejunum pouch showed bursts of contractile activity that affected postoperative gastrointestinal function and patient QOL.