Complications

Complication
Timeframe
Likelihood
short term
high

A common postoperative complaint (25% to 90%) that typically resolves spontaneously. Nasogastric tube placement does not reduce the rate of postoperative emesis or the length of hospital stay.[77]

short term
low

Rates range from 0.3% to 12%.[1] Treatment usually requires antibiotics and occasionally incision and drainage of pus collection.

short term
low

Rates range from 0% to 11.5%.[1] Requires operative repair of the injury. Failure to recognize this injury intraoperatively, and delayed diagnosis, may result in higher morbidity for patients. Unexplained postoperative tachycardia should trigger investigation.

short term
low

Rarely, an incomplete myotomy may lead to prolonged postoperative emesis after feedings.

Rates range from 0% to 5.5% for laparoscopic pyloromyotomy and 0% to 1.9% for open pyloromyotomy.[1]

May be evaluated with an upper GI contrast study (although the upper GI contrast study may remain abnormal up to 6 weeks post complete myotomy). If complete gastric outlet obstruction is noted, patient should be returned to the operating room.

If the emesis is not following feedings, other common causes should be considered, such as gastroesophageal reflux.

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