Stomach Cancer Surgery

Overview

Stomach cancer is a disease that starts in the stomach cells and causes cancerous tumors to develop. It usually starts in the mucosa that forms the inner surface of the stomach and can spread to other organs if left untreated. Stomach cancer may not show symptoms in the early stages; therefore, it is usually diagnosed in advanced stages. Surgery is one of the most effective methods in the treatment of stomach cancer and is performed with the aim of completely removing the cancer.

When is Stomach Cancer Surgery Necessary?

Surgery for stomach cancer treatment is usually recommended in the following cases:

Early-Stage Stomach Cancer: When cancer is found only in the inner layers of the stomach, surgery alone is usually sufficient.

Advanced Stomach Cancer: If the cancer has not spread beyond the stomach, surgery may be done to remove the tumor and preserve stomach function.

Metastatic Cancer: Even if cancer has spread to other organs, surgery can sometimes be done to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.

Types of Stomach Cancer Surgery

The methods used in stomach cancer surgery depend on the stage, location and spread of the cancer. The main surgical methods used are:

Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR): In early-stage stomach cancers, if the tumor is in the mucosal layer, it can be removed endoscopically. This is a minimally invasive procedure and can only be performed in the early stages.

Partial Gastrectomy: A portion of the stomach containing cancerous tissue is removed. After surgery, the rest of the stomach is connected to the digestive system to continue the digestive process. This method is preferred if the cancer is limited to the lower or upper part of the stomach.

Total Gastrectomy: In cases where stomach cancer is widespread, the entire stomach is removed. After the stomach is removed, the esophagus is connected directly to the small intestine. This procedure requires a complete replacement of the stomach's functions and may require lifestyle changes.

Laparoscopic Surgery: Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure in which stomach tumors are removed by making small incisions in the abdomen. It provides faster recovery and less pain.

Surgical Process and Recovery

Stomach cancer surgery usually takes a few hours, and depending on the extent of the surgery, the patient may stay in the hospital for several days to a week. Recovery time after surgery depends on the type of surgery and the patient's overall health.

Things to consider during the post-operative recovery process:

Diet: Eating habits may change completely after stomach cancer surgery. It is important to eat slowly, in small portions, and chew well. Start with a liquid and soft diet, and gradually switch to a normal diet.

Physical Activity: Start with light walks and avoid heavy activities to reduce pressure on the surgical site.

Vitamin and Mineral Supplements: When the stomach is completely removed, there is a risk that the body may not be able to absorb enough vitamins and minerals. Therefore, vitamin B12, iron and calcium supplements may be necessary.

Possible Complications

Stomach cancer surgery is a major operation and carries certain risks. These include:

Bleeding and Infection: There is a risk of bleeding and infection during or after surgery.

Dumping Syndrome: After partial or complete stomach removal, food can pass rapidly into the small intestine, causing symptoms such as nausea, dizziness, cramping and diarrhea.

Nutritional Problems: Problems with nutrient absorption may occur due to stomach removal. Patients often experience weight loss and weakness.

Post-Operative Follow-Up

Regular follow-up after surgery is very important. Blood tests, endoscopy and imaging tests are performed to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and to monitor general health status. In addition, the patient's diet and general health are closely monitored.

Life After Stomach Cancer Surgery

Some changes may be required in life after surgery. Especially in patients who have had a total gastrectomy, new eating habits should be established because the digestive system has completely changed. Patients should eat small portions frequently and plan their eating habits under the supervision of a dietitian. In addition, vitamin and mineral supplements are necessary in the long term.

Conclusion

Stomach cancer surgery is the main method in the treatment of the disease and the operations performed by experienced surgeons such as Op. Dr. Çağlar Ertekin aim to increase the quality of life of the patients. The follow-up and care process after surgery is of critical importance for the success of the treatment. With early diagnosis and correct treatment methods, patients with stomach cancer can continue their lives in a healthy way.