Evaluation of recurrent duodenal ulcer after vagotomy-pyloroplasty.

Seventy-five antrectomies were performed for recurrent duodenal ulcer after 1,515 vagotomy and drainage procedures. Eighty-four per cent of proved recurrences at reoperation were associated with positive acid secretory tests. Seventy-eight per cent of recurrences occurred in patients with intact vagal trunks. Incomplete vagotomy is implicated as the cause of recurrence.