Stomach Cancer: Diagnosis, Surgery, and Post-Operative Care
Stomach Cancer: Diagnosis, Surgery, and Post-Operative Care
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, often requires a combination of treatments, including surgery, to ensure the best outcomes. The decision to proceed with surgery is determined after staging assessments using imaging methods such as thorax-abdomen CT scans or PET scans. Depending on the stage and spread of the cancer, patients may undergo surgery directly or receive chemotherapy prior to surgery.
At Gediz Health, we perform stomach cancer surgeries using both laparoscopic (minimally invasive) and open techniques, tailored to the patient's condition.
Types of Stomach Cancer Surgeries
The type of surgery performed depends on the tumor's location and whether it has spread to nearby organs such as the spleen. Key surgical approaches include:
Indication: For tumors located in the lower and middle parts of the stomach (antrum and distal corpus).
Procedure:
The middle and lower parts of the stomach are removed, preserving the blood supply to the remaining stomach.
Extensive lymph node dissection (D2) is performed, which involves removing lymph nodes up to the blood vessels’ origin to ensure complete cancer clearance.
The remaining stomach is reconnected to the small intestine (anastomosis).
A secondary connection between small intestine segments ensures bile flow.
Techniques: Performed laparoscopically or via open surgery, depending on patient factors like obesity, age, and previous surgeries.
Post-Surgery Considerations:
The reconnected duodenum (stump) and anastomosis sites are critical areas, with potential complications including leaks and bleeding.
Average hospital stay: 5-7 days, assuming no complications.
2. Total Gastrectomy + D2 Lymph Node Dissection
Indication: For tumors in the upper stomach (proximal corpus) or near the gastroesophageal junction.
Procedure:
The entire stomach is removed.
The esophagus is connected to the small intestine, which then takes on the role of the stomach.
A secondary anastomosis between small intestine segments ensures bile flow.
Techniques: Performed laparoscopically or via open surgery.
Post-Surgery Considerations:
The same risks of leaks, bleeding, and organ injury apply.
Nutritional management post-surgery is crucial for patient recovery and quality of life.
Potential Complications of Stomach Cancer Surgery
Anastomosis Leaks: Leakage from the reconnection sites between the stomach, esophagus, or small intestine.
Bleeding: Common due to the involvement of major blood vessels.
Organ Injury: Rare, but possible in complex cases.
Complications may prolong hospital stay and require additional interventions, such as imaging-guided drainage or reoperation.
Post-Surgery Recovery and Nutrition
Recovery Timeline:
First Day: Patients are monitored in the ICU as a precaution.
Second Day: Liquid intake begins under medical supervision.
Gradual Diet Progression: Patients transition to soft and solid foods under the guidance of a dietitian.
Nutritional Support:
High-protein medical nutrition supplements are provided to support healing and recovery.
Follow-Up Care
Early Follow-Up (Day 10):
Evaluation of incision sites, general health, and blood parameters.
Dietitian consultation to review and adjust dietary plans.
Pathology results reviewed to guide further treatment if needed.
Long-Term Follow-Up:
Patients are reevaluated at one month post-surgery.
Subsequent follow-ups are scheduled based on pathology results and clinical progress.
Why Choose Gediz Health for Stomach Cancer Surgery?
Expert Surgeons: Skilled in both laparoscopic and open techniques.
Comprehensive Care: From pre-operative planning to long-term follow-up, we provide end-to-end care.
Advanced Facilities: Equipped with the latest technology to ensure safe and effective procedures.
Personalized Nutrition Plans: Dietitians work closely with patients to optimize recovery and health post-surgery.
Take the Next Step
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with stomach cancer, Gediz Health is here to provide compassionate, expert care. Our team is dedicated to ensuring the best outcomes for our patients.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.
