gastric antrum
The distal portion of the stomach that connects to the duodenum, preserved in most bariatric procedures.
Full Definition
The gastric antrum is the lower section of the stomach, located between the body of the stomach and the pyloric sphincter. This muscular region is responsible for grinding food and regulating gastric emptying through coordinated contractions. In bariatric surgery, the antrum is typically preserved to maintain normal gastric motility and emptying mechanisms. During sleeve gastrectomy, surgeons must carefully preserve antral function while achieving adequate restriction. The antrum's preservation is crucial for preventing delayed gastric emptying and maintaining the natural hormonal regulation of satiety through gastrin production.
Usage
Usage note: Important to preserve in sleeve gastrectomy; controls gastric emptying.
In Context
- "The staple line was initiated 6 cm proximal to the pylorus to preserve antral function." — Surgical technique description