Gastrectomy is a surgical procedure to remove part or all of the stomach. This surgery is often performed to treat stomach cancer, severe ulcers, or other significant stomach conditions.
The procedure can vary in scope from a partial gastrectomy, where only a portion of the stomach is removed, to a total gastrectomy, which involves removing the entire stomach.
Types of Gastrectomy Procedures
1. Partial Gastrectomy
Removes only the diseased portion of the stomach
Preserves some stomach function
2. Total Gastrectomy
Removes the entire stomach
The esophagus is connected directly to the small intestine
3. Sleeve Gastrectomy (Weight-Loss Surgery)
Removes a large portion of the stomach (for obesity treatment)
Why is Gastrectomy Performed?
Cancer Treatment – Removes malignant tumors
Ulcer Management – For bleeding/perforated ulcers
Disease Control – Treats conditions like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome
What to Expect After Surgery
Diet & Lifestyle Adjustments
Smaller, frequent meals (due to reduced stomach capacity)
High-protein, low-sugar diet to prevent dumping syndrome
Vitamin supplements (B12, iron, calcium) to prevent deficiencies
Recovery Timeline
Hospital stay: 5–10 days
Full recovery: 4–6 weeks (longer for total gastrectomy)
Benefits of Gastrectomy
✔ Life-saving for stomach cancer patients
✔ Relieves chronic pain from ulcers
✔ Improves long-term digestive health
Potential Risks & Complications
Dumping syndrome (rapid food passage into intestines)
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