Why is a gastrectomy performed? It is a surgical procedure in which all or part of the stomach is removed. Indications include malignant (and some benign) neoplastic diseases, complex ulcers, and, in selected cases, esophageal neoplasms.
For a neutral encyclopedic overview, see Wikipedia — Gastrectomy.
Why is a gastrectomy performed? It is, in effect, a surgical procedure during which a portion of the stomach is removed. When is this procedure used? Generally speaking, it is performed if the patient presents a fairly specific diagnosis: for example, if the patient has a malignant tumor in the stomach area. Conversely, this procedure may also be performed when the patient suffers from:
Benign neoplastic diseases;
Ulcer problems affecting the stomach area, which are rather complex cases.
The procedure may be performed if the patient has esophageal neoplastic disease.
Gastrectomy for gastric cancer
If gastric cancer is diagnosed, the specific surgical procedure will vary depending on the location of the tumor. If the tumor is located in the cardiac sphincter area, or in the larger portion of the stomach known as the gastric body, the surgery will most likely involve total stomach removal.
If, on the other hand, the tumor is located in the lower part of the larger portion of the stomach known as the body, a partial stomach removal procedure will be necessary. What anesthesia is administered to a patient requiring a portion of the stomach removal? General anesthesia will be required.
What are the possible variables that need to be considered when performing this type of surgery? The first thing to consider is the patient's health. Therefore, at least good general health is required to proceed.
What surgical techniques are used to perform this type of procedure? There are essentially two; let's look at them in detail.
Surgical techniques for the procedure
The patient may undergo two specific techniques, including:
A laparotomy will be performed;
A laparoscopic procedure will be performed.
Laparotomic approach
When we talk about traditional surgery, i.e., laparotomy, we will surgically perform an incision in the abdominal area. This will allow the surgeon to remove the affected portion of the stomach.
What happens once the affected portion of the stomach is removed? Simply put, the remaining portion of the stomach must be connected to the intestine by connecting two previously surgically removed areas: the medical term is anastomosis.
Laparoscopic procedure
If the procedure is performed laparoscopically, the focus will be on the abdominal area, where four small incisions will be made. The procedure is performed using a laparoscope, an instrument equipped with a camera.
Using this method, the surgeon will be able to remove the affected portion of the stomach and also suture the organ itself. This less invasive procedure minimizes the trauma to the patient's skin.
This method is certainly preferred over the standard surgical approach, based on the assumption that it is, in all respects, a minimally invasive procedure.
Another advantage of this approach is the time it takes for the patient to recover. This approach significantly reduces recovery times.
Are there any common elements between the two procedures? Yes, in both cases, in addition to the affected portion of the stomach, the lymph nodes and all tissues that could be affected by the tumor mass will be removed.
Post-operative management after gastrectomy
What procedures are performed on the patient post-operatively? First, drains with tubes will be inserted in the abdominal area. A nasogastric tube is inserted to ensure the patient does not experience vomiting or nausea.
How long does the patient need to stay in the hospital? The patient will need to stay in the hospital for between 7 and 10 days.
During the patient's hospital stay, monitoring procedures will be implemented to determine the progress of the recovery phase. Painkillers will be administered.
What behaviors should the patient adopt after undergoing this type of surgery? Following the operation, the patient will be required to change their diet and undergo a controlled diet.
What does this new diet involve? First, a change in eating habits, to the point that the patient will have to eat several times a day, but with moderate portions. However, the change in habits doesn't just concern the patient's diet.
In addition to having to eat several meals a day and with more moderate portions, the patient will also have to take vitamin and mineral supplements.
Risks and complications of the surgery
"After investigating the reason for gastrectomy, it's important to understand that the procedure the patient is undergoing carries specific risks.
First, it's important to note that the patient will need to be patient. Recovery from this type of surgery is slow and progressive. Regarding any post-surgery problems, the patient may experience:
A problem that may arise in a patient following surgery is diarrhea;
Another problem that may arise following surgery is the onset of bilious vomiting;
The patient may have problems with flatulence;
The patient may experience weight problems, resulting in weight loss;
The patient may develop iron and vitamin B12 deficiencies;
The patient may experience tachycardia;
The patient may experience hypotension.
Diet and the small stomach syndrome
Another very important factor to consider in this type of surgery in terms of side effects is the patient's mandatory diet.
Once a patient has undergone a gastrectomy, whether total or subtotal, they may suffer from a condition known as small stomach syndrome.
A diet based on small meals with moderate food consumption may cause the patient to experience a feeling of fullness that sets in quickly. This feeling of fullness may be related to severe abdominal cramps.
How can these problems be remedied? Two specific methods can be used:
The first approach is based on a review of the patient's diet;
The second approach is based on the introduction of vitamin supplements.
For broader clinical context on patient adherence and follow‑up, see the article Overactive bladder. For an encyclopedic overview of the surgery, see Wikipedia — Gastrectomy.
FAQ
1) When is gastrectomy indicated?
Mainly for malignant gastric neoplasms, selected benign conditions, complex ulcers, and occasionally esophageal neoplasms. The choice between partial and total gastrectomy depends on tumor location and overall health.
2) What is the difference between laparotomy and laparoscopy?
Laparotomy involves a larger abdominal incision, while laparoscopy uses small incisions and a camera; the latter is less invasive and may speed recovery when clinically appropriate.
3) How long is the postoperative stay?
Typically 7–10 days, with pain control, drains, nasogastric tube, and gradual nutritional progression.
4) What diet is recommended after surgery?
Small, frequent meals with moderate portions; vitamin and mineral supplementation as clinically indicated. See also the FAQ on adherence principles as a general reference.
5) What risks can occur?
Diarrhea, bilious vomiting, flatulence, weight loss, iron and vitamin B12 deficiencies, tachycardia, and hypotension are possible and should be monitored during follow‑up.
6) Total vs partial surgery?
Location matters: tumors at the cardia or gastric body often require total removal; distal locations may allow partial resection. The multidisciplinary team defines the indication.