Question:
If a surgeon says 'the stomache is divided and stapled' what does that mean?

My surgeon said the following- 'since we staple,divide and suture the stomache, the staples do not rupture.' So does that mean the stomache is transected-cut into two separate peices? Can anyone tell me exactly what that means- I forgot to ask. Thanks    — Jan S. (posted on March 24, 2003)

March 24, 2003
You are transected- two separate stomachs, if you will. You probably have four rows of staples. I would have never had my surgery if I could not be transected. I think most all surgeons transect these days though because of ruptures (which means the staples would pop apart and you would have one whole, big (normal) stomach again. You are in great shape....Good luck to you!!.......Karen (lap rny- 6 months post-op and down 119 pounds!)
   — karmiausnic

March 24, 2003
I asked a question very similar to this a couple of weeks ago and the response from one individual left a bad taste in my mouth, but my question was finally answered. I also checked the library in depth and called my surgeon who explained it in detail to me. When you have time to browse through the libray, you'll be surprised at what you might find and how it will help you to pick out your answers. SOmetimes what you need is addressed, other times it isn't. You may get a lot of responses, but your surgeon knows better than perhaps any of us. Hope this helps!
   — yourdivaness

March 24, 2003
A very quick call to your surgeon could clear that up for you. I agree with you that it is a little vague the way he worded it. Divide does not mean transected but could, I suppose.
   — Carol S.

March 24, 2003
Dr. Baker and Dr. Gibbs both say they Transect, which means they divide the stomach with 2-4 rows of staples then close with sutra's. This is not a stomach seperation. A stomach seperation is when the stomach is surgically cut, then each end is stapled and sutraed closed. So Transect does not mean that you have been surigally cut. Ask your Surgeon if he does Gastric bypass with a COMPLETE stomach seperation because there is a difference. You should have 2 stomach's that are in NO-WAY touching(top one pouch, bottom stomach)E-mail me and I will explain what I found out to you in greater detail.
   — latrishanickle