Helicobacter pylori Eradication in Patients Undergoing Gastrectomy: Diagnosis and Therapy

Abstract

The role of <i>Helicobacter pylori</i> (<i>H. pylori</i>) eradication in patients undergoing gastrectomy for gastric cancer is unclear. Although European and Asian guidelines strongly recommend <i>H. pylori</i> eradication in patients who undergo endoscopic resection for early gastric cancer, these guidelines do not specify the tests useful for diagnosing <i>H. pylori</i> infection, the optimal timing and appropriate eradication regimens, and follow-up strategies in patients undergoing gastrectomy for gastric cancer. This review aims to update the guidelines for the diagnosis and management of <i>H. pylori</i> infection in patients undergoing gastrectomy for gastric cancer. We have focused on the following issues: 1) diagnostic tests for <i>H. pylori</i> infection in the remnant stomach, 2) optimal timing and regimen for <i>H. pylori</i> eradication, and 3) role of <i>H. pylori</i> eradication in reducing the risk of metachronous gastric cancer in the remnant stomach.