Editing Gastrectomy (section)

==History==
The first successful gastrectomy was performed by [[Theodor Billroth]] in 1881 for cancer of the stomach.

Historically, gastrectomies were used to treat [[peptic ulcer]]s.<ref>E. Pólya:Zur Stumpfversorgung nach Magenresektion. Zentralblatt für Chirurgie, Leipzig, 1911, 38: 892-894.</ref>  These are now usually treated with [[antibiotic]]s, as it was recognized that they are usually due to ''[[Helicobacter pylori]]'' infection or chemical imbalances in the gastric juices.

In the past a gastrectomy for peptic ulcer disease was often accompanied by a [[vagotomy]], to reduce acid production.  This problem is now managed with [[proton pump inhibitor]]s.