Clinical Gastroenterology Vol.24 No.11(2-5)

Theme Clinical Problems after Gastrectomy
Title Postgastrectomy Dysfunction and Evaluation of QOL : Present State and Future Development
Publish Date 2009/10
Author Misuzu Nakamura School of Nursing, Department of Surgery, Jichi Medical University
Author Yoshinori Hosoya Department of Surgery, Jichi Medical University
Author Hideo Dannoue School of Nursing, Department of Surgery, Jichi Medical University
Author Yasuko Takemasa School of Nursing, Department of Surgery, Jichi Medical University
Author Masahiko Yano Department of Surgery, Osaka Medical Centerf or Cancer and Cardiovascular Diseases
Author Yuichiro Doki Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine
[ Summary ] After gastrectomy, resection or reconstruction of the digestive tract results in various dysfunction-related physical symptoms. However, few studies have evaluated the severity of various physical symptoms related to postgastrectomy dysfunction. These symptoms affectpatients' daily lives after gastrectomies, markedly reducing their quality of life (QOL). Therefore, radical surgery aimed at preserving function is emphasized. In this article, we review various symptoms following gastrectomy and serious difficulties experienced by patients in their daily lives. We also describe trends in studies regarding the assessment of postgastrectomy dysfunction and QOL. Furthermore, we investigate which type of scale is appropriate to evaluate these conditions. In addition, we discuss the development and future application of our method for functional assessment after surgery for upper digestive tract cancer.
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