Medium- and long-term results of jejunal pouch reconstruction after a total and proximal gastrectomy

Purpose We developed several kinds of jejunal (J)-pouch reconstruction after a gastrectomy for gastric cancer. The aim of this study was to investigate the advantages of these methods. Methods As for the treatment of malignant gastric diseases at stage II or earlier, we employed the J-pouch reconstruction (Roux-en-Y method: JPRY, or J-pouch interposing: JPI) following a total gastrectomy. We also used JPI after a proximal gastrectomy for early gastric cancer located in the upper third of the stomach. Results Out of a total of 80 patients, JPRY was performed in 40 patients and JPI in 40. No anastomotic leaks were associated with the use of an automatic stapler. The stapler (Endo GIA; U.S. Surgical, Norwalk, CT, USA) with a 60-mm-long white cartridge minimized bleeding from the anastomotic site and reduced the operative time. While two patients died of recurrence, all other patients are alive and well for a maximum of 15 years after surgery. The motility of the J pouch was satisfactory after both surgical procedures, as measured by the bile regurgitation test or the transit test employing radiopaque markers. The mean percentage of the radiopaque markers eliminated from the J pouch 1 h after breakfast was 7.5% in the JPRY group and 0%-33% in the JPI group. After another hour, the corresponding percentage was 19.5% in the JPRY group and 14%-60% in the JPI group. Conclusions Our procedures for J-pouch reconstruction are considered to result in a favorable postoperative quality of life and prognosis. J-pouch reconstruction is therefore advantageous in terms of operative morbidity, postoperative clinical signs, symptoms, and dietary status.