[Use of histological criteria to evaluate the quality of vagotomy operations. Does ascending degeneration of the nerve exist? (author's transl)].

Abstract

Following vagotomy it is a common finding to observe a neuroma at the upper extremity of the nerve. Furthermore, Tinel, quoting Ranson, believes that the sensory fibers of the sectioned pneumogastric may be affected by ascending degeneration. In fact, during thoracic vagotomy after an unsuccessful abdominal vagotomy, histological examination of the resected right thoracic nerve demonstrated disorganization with the appearance of partial ascending degeneration. It appeared possible, therefore, to assess the quality of a vagotomy, by studying the histological appearance of the resected vagus when a further operation using the thoracic approach is necessary. An experimental study was conducted in dogs and the results confirmed the presence, at the upper extremity, of both an amputation neuroma and neuronal changes, though these latter lesions were limited to a region 3 cm above the section level. It is reasonable to assume, therefore, that the lower segment of a vagus resected by the thoracic approach, after an unsuccessful abdominal vagotomy, should show degenerative lesions if the vagotomy had been effective, but these lesions are limited in extent.

• Authors: D Henin, B Chiche, L Leger
• Journal: Journal de chirurgie (J Chir (Paris)) Vol. 117 Issue 8-9 Pg. 435-41 (Sep 1980) ISSN: 0021-7697 [Print] France
• Vernacular Title: Recherche d'un critère histologique de la qualité de la vagotomie. Existe-t-il une "dégénérescence ascendante" du nerf?
• PMID: 7430275 (Publication Type: Case Reports, English Abstract, Journal Article)

Topics

• Animals
• Dogs
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Nerve Degeneration
• Vagotomy
• Vagus Nerve (pathology)