What is vagotomy?

Vagotomy is a surgical procedure that involves making an incision into the vagus nerve, which is a key component of the parasympathetic nervous system. This procedure is typically performed to reduce stomach acid production, often in the context of treating peptic ulcers. By cutting the vagus nerve, the transmission of signals related to acid secretion can be diminished, helping to heal ulcers and alleviate symptoms.

The intricacies of the vagus nerve and its connections to gastrointestinal functions make this procedure beneficial for certain medical conditions. Notably, vagotomy is distinguished from simply removing or blocking the nerve, which entails different surgical approaches or implications. The term “incision” accurately reflects the nature of the procedure, focusing on modifying the nerve's function without complete removal.