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Professional Technical IVT

Roux-en-Y reconstruction

Pronunciation: ROO-en-WHY ree-kon-STRUK-shun

A surgical anastomotic technique creating a Y-shaped connection to restore gastrointestinal continuity after resection.

Full Definition

Roux-en-Y reconstruction is a versatile surgical technique used to restore gastrointestinal continuity following resection procedures, particularly in gastric and pancreatic surgery. The procedure involves creating a Y-shaped anastomotic configuration where the jejunum is divided, and the distal end is brought up to connect with the stomach, pancreatic duct, or bile duct, while the proximal jejunal end is anastomosed to the jejunum downstream. This configuration prevents bile reflux into the stomach and reduces the risk of marginal ulceration. In gastrointestinal oncology, Roux-en-Y reconstruction is commonly employed in total gastrectomy, pancreaticoduodenectomy, and distal gastrectomy procedures. The technique provides excellent functional outcomes with reduced alkaline reflux compared to other reconstructive methods.

Usage

Usage note: Hyphenate as 'Roux-en-Y' with capital R and Y. The 'en' should be lowercase.

In Context

  • "Following total gastrectomy, Roux-en-Y reconstruction was performed with a 45-cm jejunal limb to prevent bile reflux." — Operative report
  • "The patient tolerated the Roux-en-Y reconstruction well with no evidence of anastomotic complications on upper GI series." — Post-operative follow-up note

Also known as

Roux-en-Y anastomosis Y-shaped reconstruction

Don't confuse with

Billroth II reconstruction jejunal interposition Whipple reconstruction

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