TRUNCAL VAGOTOMY Meaning and
Definition
-
Truncal vagotomy is a surgical procedure that involves the severing or removal of the main branches of the vagus nerve (cranial nerve X) in the abdomen. The vagus nerve is responsible for transmitting signals between the brain and various organs in the body, including the stomach, intestines, and parts of the digestive system.
The purpose of a truncal vagotomy is primarily to reduce or eliminate symptoms associated with excessive gastric acid production, such as ulcers or acid reflux disease. By interrupting the communication between the brain and the stomach, the surgery reduces the release of gastric secretions that can contribute to these conditions.
During the procedure, the surgeon identifies and isolates the main branches of the vagus nerve and then cuts or removes them. This is often performed alongside other procedures, such as antrectomy (removal of a portion of the stomach) or pyloroplasty (enlargement of the opening between the stomach and small intestine), to further enhance the effectiveness of the treatment.
Truncal vagotomy is typically considered a last resort when other non-surgical treatments have failed to provide relief. While it can effectively reduce acid production and alleviate symptoms, it can also lead to potential side effects such as delayed stomach emptying and changes in bowel movement patterns. Therefore, it is essential to discuss the risks, benefits, and alternatives with a medical professional to determine if this surgical option is appropriate.
Common Misspellings for TRUNCAL VAGOTOMY
- rruncal vagotomy
- fruncal vagotomy
- gruncal vagotomy
- yruncal vagotomy
- 6runcal vagotomy
- 5runcal vagotomy
- teuncal vagotomy
- tduncal vagotomy
- tfuncal vagotomy
- ttuncal vagotomy
- t5uncal vagotomy
- t4uncal vagotomy
- tryncal vagotomy
- trhncal vagotomy
- trjncal vagotomy
- trincal vagotomy
- tr8ncal vagotomy
- tr7ncal vagotomy
- trubcal vagotomy
- trumcal vagotomy
Etymology of TRUNCAL VAGOTOMY
The term "truncal vagotomy" comes from two main sources: "truncal" and "vagotomy".
"Truncal" is derived from the Latin word "truncus", meaning "trunk" or "main stem". In medical terminology, it refers to the main portion or central part of a structure. In the context of a truncal vagotomy, it refers to the main branches of the vagus nerve that are divided or cut.
"Vagotomy" is a combination of the Latin word "vagus", meaning "wandering", and the suffix "-otomy", meaning "cutting" or "surgical incision". The vagus nerve is the tenth cranial nerve that has wide-spread innervation and is responsible for various functions, including control of the digestive system.
