Gastrectomy (Stomach Removal Surgery): Know the Procedure & Recovery After
Gastrectomy is a surgical procedure involving the partial or complete removal of the stomach. This procedure is usually performed to treat Gastrectomy conditions such as stomach cancer, severe ulcers, or other serious gastrointestinal disorders that cannot be managed through non-surgical methods.
Types of Gastrectomy Surgery Procedures
Here are the main types of gastrectomy surgery procedures:
- Partial Gastrectomy: Removes part of the stomach, usually for treating stomach cancer or other problems.
- total gastrectomy removes: Removes the entire stomach, typically done for advanced stomach cancer. The esophagus is connected directly to the small intestine.
- Sleeve Gastrectomy: Removes most of the stomach, leaving a small tube. This is often used for weight loss surgery to reduce hunger.
- Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y): Creates a small pouch from the stomach and connects it to a part of the small intestine, bypassing the rest of the stomach and intestine to help with weight loss.
- Gastric Banding (Lap-Band): Places a band around the upper part of the stomach to create a small pouch. It can be adjusted to control how much food you eat, used mainly for weight loss.
These surgeries are used for different health conditions, including cancer treatment and weight loss.
Indications of Gastrectomy Surgery Procedure
Gastrectomy, the surgical removal of part or all of the stomach, is performed for various medical conditions. The decision to undergo a gastrectomy is based on the patient’s medical history, symptoms, diagnostic tests, and overall health.
Some common indications for gastrectomy include:
- Stomach Cancer: Gastrectomy is often performed to treat stomach cancer, especially when the cancer is localized and has not spread to other parts of the body. The extent of the gastrectomy depends on the size and location of the tumor.
- Peptic Ulcers: Severe, uncontrollable peptic ulcers that cause bleeding, perforation, or obstruction might require gastrectomy to remove the affected portion of the stomach.
- Stomach Polyps: Large or precancerous stomach polyps that cannot be removed endoscopically may necessitate gastrectomy.
- Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs): Some types of GISTs, which are tumors that develop in the digestive tract, may require gastrectomy if they are large, aggressive, or causing symptoms.
- Perforation or Rupture: Gastrectomy might be necessary if the stomach is severely perforated or ruptured due to trauma or a medical condition.
- Uncontrolled Bleeding: If the stomach is bleeding uncontrollably due to a gastric ulcer or another condition, surgery might be required to stop the bleeding and remove the source.
- Intractable Symptoms: Severe symptoms such as unmanageable pain, obstruction, vomiting, or significant weight loss that cannot be alleviated with conservative treatments might lead to a gastrectomy.
- Barrett’s Esophagus with High-Grade Dysplasia: In rare cases, patients with Barrett’s esophagus (a precancerous condition) and high-grade dysplasia might undergo gastrectomy to prevent progression to esophageal cancer.
- Genetic Conditions: Some hereditary conditions, such as hereditary diffuse gastric cancer syndrome, might lead to a high risk of developing stomach cancer, prompting a preventive gastrectomy.
- Bariatric Surgery: Sleeve gastrectomy is a type of gastrectomy that is used as a weight loss surgery for individuals with severe obesity. It involves removing a large portion of the stomach to reduce its capacity.
Who Will Treat the Gastrectomy Procedure?
Several medical professionals and specialists are involved in the diagnosis, treatment, and care of patients undergoing a gastrectomy procedure. These experts collaborate to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients. Here are some of the key healthcare professionals involved in the treatment of gastrectomy:
- Gastroenterologist
- Surgeon
- Medical Oncologist
- Radiologist
- Pathologist
- Anesthesiologist
- Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist
- Nurse
- Physical Therapist
- Psychologist/Psychiatrist
How to Prepare for a Gastrectomy Surgery Procedure?
Preparing for a gastrectomy, a major surgical procedure involving the removal of part or all of the stomach, requires careful planning and coordination with your healthcare team.
Here are steps you can take to prepare for the procedure:
- Consultation & Communication: Discuss the procedure, expectations, and ask questions about surgery and recovery.
- Medical Evaluation: Complete necessary tests, including blood work and imaging, to assess health for surgery.
- Nutritional Assessment: Meet with a dietitian for dietary advice before and after surgery.
- Medication Review: Share your medication list to get guidance on which to continue or stop before surgery.
- Smoking & Alcohol: Quit smoking and avoid alcohol before surgery to aid healing and recovery.
- Informed Consent: Understand risks, benefits, and complications before signing the consent form.
- Preoperative Education: Attend sessions to learn about surgery, recovery, and hospital stay.
- Arrange Support: Plan for help during recovery for daily activities.
- Advance Directives: Review or set up advance directives to document your healthcare wishes.
- Preparing Your Home: Make your living space comfortable and ready for recovery.
- Post-Operative Diet: Understand post-surgery dietary changes and plan meals accordingly.
- Mental & Emotional Preparation: Prepare mentally and emotionally for surgery, using relaxation techniques.
- Fasting Instructions: Follow the fasting instructions provided by your surgical team.
- Hospital Bag: Pack essential items for your hospital stay, including comfortable clothing and toiletries.
- Transportation: Arrange transport to and from the hospital on surgery day.
Steps Involved in Gastrectomy Procedure
During a gastrectomy procedure, the surgeon removes a portion or the entirety of the stomach, depending on the medical condition and the extent of the surgery. The specific gastrectomy surgery steps can vary based on the type of gastrectomy being performed and the patient’s individual circumstances.
Here’s a general overview of what happens during a gastrectomy procedure:
- Preoperative Preparation: Patients undergo tests to assess health, and the procedure is discussed with the surgical team.
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered for pain relief.
- Incision: One or more abdominal incisions are made, depending on the type of gastrectomy.
- Access & Visualization: For minimally invasive surgery, a laparoscope is used to guide the procedure.
- Resection: The affected portion of the stomach is removed, or the entire stomach is removed (in total gastrectomy).
- Reconstruction: The digestive tract is reconstructed, connecting the remaining stomach or esophagus to the small intestine.
- Closure: Incisions are closed with sutures or staples.
- Postoperative Care: Patients are monitored for pain and recovery. Hospital stay varies, and recovery instructions are provided for post-op care.
Recovery After Gastrectomy Procedure
Recovery after a gastrectomy procedure, which involves the surgical removal of part or all of the stomach, can be a gradual process that requires patience, adherence to medical guidelines, and support from your healthcare team. Here’s what you can generally expect during the recovery period:
- Hospital Stay: Recovery time depends on the surgery type and progress, ranging from a few days to a week or more.
- Pain Management: Pain medications will be provided; communicate with your team to manage discomfort.
- Monitoring and Care: Healthcare professionals will monitor vital signs, incisions, and recovery.
- Gradual Diet Progression: Start with IV fluids, then progress from clear liquids to soft foods, based on your doctor’s advice.
- Nutritional Support: Supplements may be recommended if you’re struggling with nutrition.
- Incision Care: Follow instructions to care for your incision and prevent infection.
- Physical Activity: Begin walking as advised to prevent blood clots and improve circulation.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Attend scheduled follow-ups to track progress and address concerns.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Adjust eating habits to fit new digestion, such as smaller, more frequent meals.
- Emotional Support: Seek support from loved ones or groups to cope with the emotional challenges of recovery.
- Potential Complications: Be aware of complications like infection, bleeding, or changes in bowel habits.
- Long-Term Follow-Up: Continue regular appointments to monitor long-term recovery.
Lifestyle Changes After Gastrectomy Procedure
After undergoing a gastrectomy, adjusting your lifestyle is crucial for managing changes in digestion and nutrient absorption.
Here are some important lifestyle changes to consider after a gastrectomy procedure:
- Balanced Nutrition: Work with a dietitian to create a meal plan that includes adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals.
- Nutritional Supplements: Your doctor may recommend supplements to prevent nutrient deficiencies.
- Hydration: Drink water throughout the day, but sip fluids between meals to avoid filling your stomach too quickly.
- Chew Thoroughly: Chew food well to aid digestion, as your stomach capacity is reduced.
- Post-Meal Rest: Take short walks or rest after meals to support digestion and prevent discomfort.
- Monitor Blood Sugar: If diabetic, monitor blood sugar levels as eating patterns may affect glucose control.
- Emotional Well-Being: Seek support from loved ones or professionals to cope with emotional challenges.
- Plan Meals and Snacks: Pre-plan meals and snacks to make healthier choices and avoid overeating.
- Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps manage weight, promote digestion, and maintain overall health.
- Medication Considerations: Discuss any medication adjustments with your healthcare provider.
- Mindful Eating: Eat slowly and pay attention to hunger and fullness cues to avoid overeating.
- Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Quit smoking and limit alcohol, as it can affect digestion.
- Gradual Introductions: Slowly introduce new foods and monitor how your body reacts.
