Patty developed a severe peptic ulcer. A change in diet did not seem to help and pharmaceuticals only provided temporary relief. Her physician suggested that cutting the vagal nerve supply to the stomach may help her. Explain why this surgery would help.
What side effects might also be expected from such a procedure?
Many cases of peptic ulcer are due to an infection by a bacterium, Helicobacter pylori. In this case vagal nerve surgery is not called for. What simple treatment would resolve a peptic ulcer caused by this bacterium?