Pyloric sphincter insufficiency
Pyloric Sphincter Insufficiency
Pyloric sphincter insufficiency is a medical condition caused by a weakening of the valve that separates the stomach from the small intestine. This condition can cause a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms, such as bloating, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, early satiety, and diarrhea. In some cases, the patient may have an inability to digest certain foods due to the weakened sphincter, which is why it is also known as pyloric stenosis.
The exact cause of pyloric sphincter insufficiency is unknown, though it can be seen in adults, children, and in infants as a congenital disorder. It is thought to be caused by repeated internal pressure on the pylorus from the stomach muscles. Risk factors include age, certain medical conditions and medications, and damage to the pylorus from stomach or duodenal surgeries.
Symptoms
Common symptoms associated with pyloric sphincter insufficiency include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain
- Early satiety
- Diarrhea
- An inability to digest certain foods
Diagnosis and Treatment
Pyloric sphincter insufficiency is diagnosed with endoscopy, a procedure that uses a thin, flexible tube containing a camera to produce images of the stomach and small intestine. Medical imaging tests such as X-ray, ultrasound and MRI may also be used to diagnose the condition. Treatment typically involves taking medications to regulate the activity of the pylorus.
In cases where the symptoms do not improve with medications, surgical interventions such as pyloromyotomy may be recommended. This involves making an incision in the area of the sphincter muscle to allow the stomach contents to enter the small intestine more easily. In extreme cases, when the integrity of the pyloric valve is compromised, the valve may be replaced surgically with a functional mechanical valve.