Billroth I Gastrectomy Using a Circular Stapler to Treat Gastric Cancer

We describe herein our technique of performing gastrectomy followed by side-to-end gastroduodenostomy. Because the clamp is removed at the resection line of the greater curvature, there is no need to perform an additional gastrotomy for insertion of the instrument. This feature differentiates our technique from previous methods of anastomosis using the circular stapler. We believe that our technique is superior in simplicity and security to the traditional hand-sewn anastomosis. Moreover, it allows for a shorter operative time. This technique is recommended for practical surgery over conventional techniques. Received: February 23, 2000 / Accepted: July 25, 2000