(vay-GAH-tuh-mee) An operation to cut the vagus nerve. This causes the stomach to make less acid.
(VAY-gus nurv) The nerve in the stomach that controls the making of stomach acid.
(valv) A fold in the lining of an organ that prevents fluid from flowing backward.
(VAIR-uh-seez) Stretched veins such as those that form in the esophagus from cirrhosis.
(VIL-eye) The tiny, fingerlike projections on the surface of the small intestine. Villi help absorb nutrients.
(VY-rul heh-puh-TY-tis)
Hepatitis caused by a virus. Five different viruses (A, B, C, D, and E)
most commonly cause this form of hepatitis. Other rare viruses may also cause
hepatitis. See Hepatitis.
Type of Mode of Transmission
Hepatitis A
* Contaminated food and water.
Hepatitis B
* Sexual intercourse.
* Sharing infected needles.
Hepatitis C
* Sharing infected needles.
Hepatitis D
* Must have hepatitis B.
* Found mainly in intravenous drug users.
Hepatitis E
* Contaminated water from poor sanitation.
(VAHLV-yoo-lus) A twisting of the stomach or large intestine. May be caused by the stomach being in the wrong position, a foreign substance, or abnormal joining of one part of the stomach or intestine to another. Volvulus can lead to blockage, perforation, peritonitis, and poor blood flow.
(VAH-muh-ting) The release of stomach contents through the mouth.