The stomach is a muscular, sac-like portion of the digestive tract between the esophagus and duodenum. The term constriction indicates a contraction or narrowing. In this case, the stenosis may be at the lower outlet of the stomach, which is referred to as the pyloric end. A pyloric stenosis is a narrowing of the pylorus, the lower part of the stomach through which food and other stomach contents pass to enter the small intestine.

The stenosis may be caused by hypertrophy and thickening of the sphincter muscle, inflammatory disorders, or excessive development of fibrous tissue.

Manifestations include: a burning sensation in the stomach; bloating; abdominal discomfort; a sensation of fullness; large volume of vomiting which is sour and fermented and occurring long after meals; and severe constipation. There may be symptoms of gastritis associated with a gastric ulcer (see Diagnostic Code: 7307 Gastritis).

Diagnostic measures include: physical examination; gastric aspiration; endoscopy; x-rays; and blood work.

Nasogastric suctioning and suppression of acid with blockers may be indicated. In addition, diet therapy and surgery might be indicated.

Residuals will depend on the extent of the stenosis, and treatment outcomes. Dietary modifications include a diet that is nutritious, low in bulk, and divided into small amounts of food eaten at frequent intervals.

• None.

• Ratings under diagnostic codes 7301 to 7329, inclusive, 7331, 7342, and 7345 to 7348 inclusive will not be combined with each other. A single evaluation will be assigned under the diagnostic code which reflects the predominant disability picture, with elevation to the next higher evaluation where the severity of the overall disability warrants such elevation.[38 CR 4.114]

• There are diseases of the digestive system, particularly within the abdomen, which, while differing in the site of pathology, produce a common disability picture characterized in the main by varying degrees of abdominal distress or pain, anemia and disturbances in nutrition. Consequently, certain coexisting diseases in this area, as indicated in the instruction under the title “Diseases of the Digestive System,” do not lend themselves to distinct and separate disability evaluations without violating the fundamental principle relating to pyramiding as outlined in 38 CR 4.114.  [38 CFR 4.113]