Gut Instinct - Summary - MDSpire

Gut Instinct

Does stomach surgery raise the risk of dry eye disease? A Korean study offers new clues

  • By

  • The Ophthalmologist

  • January 6, 2026

  • 3 min

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Objective:

To assess the long-term risk of developing dry eye disease (DED) in patients who have undergone gastrectomy compared to matched controls.

Key Findings:
  • Gastrectomy is significantly associated with a higher risk of dry eye disease (DED) with an adjusted hazard ratio (HR) of 1.09.
  • Total gastrectomy shows an even greater risk with an adjusted HR of 1.40.
  • The association is most pronounced in patients aged 60 or older, males, urban residents, and lower-income groups.
  • Colectomy does not show an increased risk of DED, with an adjusted HR of 1.00.
Interpretation:

The study suggests that alterations to the upper GI tract, such as those caused by gastrectomy, may have a more direct impact on ocular surface health compared to changes in the colon.

Limitations:
  • The study cannot prove causality.
  • Potential confounding factors may not be fully accounted for.
Conclusion:

Post-gastrectomy patients may require closer monitoring for dry eye symptoms, emphasizing the need for collaboration between ophthalmology and gastrointestinal surgery.

Original Source(s)

Gut Instinct

  • by The Ophthalmologist

  • January 6, 2026

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