Pyloroplasty is surgery to widen the opening in the lower part of the stomach (pylorus) so that the stomach contents can empty into the small intestine (duodenum).

See: Pyloric stenosis

The surgery is done while you are under general anesthesia (asleep and pain-free). The surgeon makes a cut around the belly button or in the upper right part of the belly. If the surgery is done laparoscopically, three smaller cuts are used.

The surgery involves cutting through some of the thickened muscle to relieve the narrowing (stenosis). The cut through the muscle is then closed horizontally to keep the pylorus open and allow the stomach to empty.

Pyloric stenosis is caused by increased thickness of the pylorus muscle. It is usually found in young children.

Pyloroplasty is the only effective treatment for pyloric stenosis. It may also be used to treat certain patients with peptic ulcers or other types of gastric disease that cause a blockage of the stomach opening.

Risks of anesthesia include the following:

• Reactions to medications
• Problems breathing

• Bleeding
• Infection

Risks specific to this procedure:

• Leakage of stomach contents
• Long-term diarrhea
• Malnutrition
• Tear in the lining of surrounding organs (mucosal perforation)

Most patients make a complete and quick recovery.

After surgery, the health care team will monitor your breathing, blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate. Most patients can go home within 24 hours.