Definition

  • Dumping syndrome: rapid gastric emptying as a result of defective gastric reservoir function, impaired pyrloci emptying mechanism or anomalous postsurgery gastric motor function

Early Dumping

  • Dysfunctional or bypassed pyloric sphincter → rapid emptying of undiluted hyperosmolar chyme into the small intestine → fluid shift to the intestinal lumen → small bowel distention → vagal stimulation → ↑ increased intestinal motility

Clinical Features

  • Occurs within 15-30 minutes after meal ingestion
  • Include nausea, vomiting diarrhoea and cramps
  • Vasomotor symptoms such as sweating, flushing and palpitations

Management

  • Dietary modifications: small meals that include combination of complex carbohydrates and foods rich in protein and fat
  • 30-60 min of rest in the supine position after meals
  • Beta blockers may be helpful to ease tachycardia arising from hypovolemia

Late Dumping

  • Dysfunctional pyloric sphincter → rapid emptying of glucose-containing chyme into the small intestine → quick reabsorption of hlucose → hyperglycaemia → ↑ insulin → hypoglycaemia and release of catecholamines

Clinical Features

  • Occurs hours after meal ingestion
  • Include signs of hypogylcaemia (e.g. hunger, tremor and lightheadedness)
  • GI discomfort

Mangement

  • Dietary modifications
  • Second-line: ocreotide
  • Third-line: surgery

Sources

Amboss: [Gastric Cancer - Amboss Article][https://next.amboss.com/us/article/-g0DB2#Zde1937c1ec3116f80e7913e779046415]