GASTRECTOMY

Indications:

Gastric (stomach) cancer and severe, recurrent ulcer disease are the two most common indications for gastrectomy.

Preoperative Evaluation:

All patients undergo either endoscopy of the stomach called EGD or less commonly an upper GI barium study. Additionally, in the case of cancer, a CAT scan and blood tests are usually performed.

Procedure:

The affected portion of the stomach is removed and the remaining stomach is then sewn to the intestine. For cancer the lymph nodes surrounding the stomach are also removed.

Length of Stay:

Variable depending upon overall patient health however the average is about five days.

Recovery:

4 to 6 weeks with no driving for 2 weeks and no lifting over 10 pounds for 6 weeks.