An operation in which the nerve that controls the production of digestive acid by the stomach lining is cut to treat a defect in the lining of the stomach or the first part of the small intestine, an area called the duodenum: If a peptic ulcer is associated with the obstruction of the outlet of the stomach, or if there is a hemorrhage or a perforation, a vagotomy is necessary to cut the vagus nerve, which will reduce the production of acid at its source.

After the vagotomy, Cindy was given fluids intravenously (by infusion into a vein) until her gastrointestinal tract could accept swallowed fluids.