Gastrectomy – Surgical Removal of the Stomach
What is Gastrectomy?
Gastrectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the partial or complete removal of the stomach. It is most commonly performed to treat stomach (gastric) cancer, but may also be done for other conditions like severe ulcers, non-cancerous tumors, or hereditary risk of stomach cancer.
Depending on the condition and location of the disease, gastrectomy can be:
- Partial Gastrectomy – Only a portion of the stomach is removed
- Total Gastrectomy – The entire stomach is removed
- Sleeve Gastrectomy – A weight-loss (bariatric) surgery that reduces stomach size
- Proximal or Distal Gastrectomy – Based on whether the upper or lower part is removed
Why is Gastrectomy Performed?
A gastrectomy may be recommended for:
- Gastric (stomach) cancer
- Severe bleeding gastric ulcers
- Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs)
- Non-cancerous stomach polyps or masses
- Weight loss surgery (sleeve gastrectomy)
- Familial risk of stomach cancer (e.g., CDH1 mutation)
Types of Gastrectomy
- Partial Gastrectomy – Lower or upper part of the stomach is removed
- Total Gastrectomy – Entire stomach is removed; esophagus is connected to the small intestine
- Sleeve Gastrectomy – A vertical section of the stomach is removed (bariatric surgery)
- Open or Minimally Invasive – May be performed via open, laparoscopic, or robotic techniques
Procedure Overview
- Performed under general anesthesia
- The diseased part of the stomach is removed
- Remaining digestive tract is reconstructed to allow food to pass
- May include removal of nearby lymph nodes if cancer is present
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours depending on complexity
- Hospital stay: 5 to 7 days (may vary)
Recovery after Gastrectomy
- Gradual reintroduction of liquids and soft foods
- Nutritional support with supplements (especially after total gastrectomy)
- Small, frequent meals recommended long-term
- Full recovery in 4–6 weeks for most patients
- Regular follow-up with your surgical and nutrition team
Possible Risks and Complications
- Infection or bleeding
- Dumping syndrome (rapid gastric emptying)
- Reflux or indigestion
- Nutritional deficiencies (especially B12, iron, calcium)
- Leakage from surgical site (rare)
Your care team will guide you through all precautions, medications, and diet plans to minimize risks.
Why Choose [Your Hospital/Doctor’s Name] for Gastrectomy?
- Advanced Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgery Options
- Multidisciplinary Cancer Care
- Comprehensive Nutritional and Postoperative Support
- State-of-the-Art Operation Theatres and ICU Support