Duodenojejunostomy as an alternative to anastomosis of the small intestine at the ligament of Treitz

Abstract

Side to side duodenojejunostomy is a reasonable alternative to other methods of reconstitution of the continuity of the upper portion of the GI tract in selected circumstances. It is not necessary to use duodenojejunostomy in resections distal to the ligament of Treitz because an end to end anastomosis may be readily accomplished. The described technique, however, provides a convenient means of reconstruction for the upper portion of the GI. tract when resection of the small intestine is necessary at the ligament of Treitz or in close proximity to the origin of the mesenteric vasculature. Thus, adequate resection at the ligament of Treitz may be performed when necessary, and the need to subsequently visualize or mobilize the transected duodenal stump to construct an anastomosis in that region is obviated.