Definition
The pylorus is the opening between the stomach and the intestines. A pyloroplasty is a surgery to make the pylorus opening wider.
Reasons for Procedure
The pylorus opens and closes to allow food to pass to the intestines. Certain conditions can make this area thicker. This change can make it difficult for food to pass. The condition is called pyloric stenosis. It can cause severe symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and dehydration.
Pyloroplasty is done to widen the opening. It can treat this condition.
Possible Complications
Complications are rare. However, no procedure is completely free of risk. Your child’s doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Damage to intestines
- Hernia formation at the incision site
- Chronic diarrhea
Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:
- Current bleeding disorders
- Prior surgeries in the abdomen
- Malnutrition or dehydration
- Heart or lung conditions
What to Expect
Prior to Procedure
Make sure your child does not eat or drink anything before the surgery. Follow the specific directions given by your doctor.
Anesthesia
General anesthesia will be used. Your child will be in a deep sleep.
Description of Procedure
The anesthesia will be given. Once your child is asleep, an incision will be made in the abdomen. A cut will be made in the muscle of the pylorus. The pylorus will then be sewn back together in a wider shape.
The abdominal muscles will be sewn back together. The skin will be closed with stitches or staples.
Immediately After Procedure
After the surgery, your child will be monitored for about 1-2 hours.
How Long Will It Take?
The surgery will take about 1-2 hours.
How Much Will It Hurt?
Anesthesia will block pain during the procedure. After the surgery, your child will feel pain. Medication will be given to help manage the pain.
Average Hospital Stay
The usual length of stay is 1-3 days. The doctor may choose to keep your child longer if there are complications.
Post-procedure Care
A normal diet will be gradually introduced during the hospital stay. Before your child goes home, a nurse will teach you how to take care of her surgical incision . Ask your doctor about when it is safe for your child to shower, bathe, or soak in water.
Be sure to follow the doctor’s instructions .
Call Your Doctor
After your child leaves the hospital, contact the doctor if any of the following occurs:
- Signs of infection, including fever and chills
- Redness, swelling, increasing pain, excessive bleeding, or any discharge from the incision site
- Nausea and/or vomiting that your child cannot control with the medicines given
- Pain that your child cannot control with the medicines given
- Cough or shortness of breath
- Severe abdominal pain or vomiting blood
- Dark-colored, tarry stools or blood in the stool
In case of an emergency, call for medical help right away.