A surgery to remove part or all the stomach, a gastrectomy is a key treatment option for stomach cancer. This procedure aims to eliminate the cancerous cells and prevent the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body.
The surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen to access the stomach. The extent of the surgery depends on the size and location of the tumour, as well as the overall health of the patient. After removing the affected portion of the stomach, the surgeon may reconstruct the digestive tract by connecting the remaining portion of the stomach to the small intestine or oesophagus. This aims to restore the normal flow of food and digestion through the digestive system allowing patient to eat and digest food effectively. Risks of this surgery will be discussed with your doctor at consultation.