Gastrectomy

Gastrectomy is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of part or all of the stomach. This procedure is typically performed to treat stomach cancer, peptic ulcers, and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Types of Gastrectomy[edit | edit source]

There are several types of gastrectomy, including:

Partial Gastrectomy: This involves the removal of part of the stomach. It is often performed when the lower part of the stomach is affected by disease.

Total Gastrectomy: This involves the removal of the entire stomach. The esophagus is then connected directly to the small intestine.

Sleeve Gastrectomy: This is a type of bariatric surgery where a large part of the stomach is removed, leaving a smaller, tube-shaped stomach.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

The procedure for a gastrectomy typically involves the following steps:

The patient is given general anesthesia.
The surgeon makes an incision in the abdomen.
The stomach is removed either partially or totally, depending on the type of gastrectomy being performed.
The remaining part of the stomach or the esophagus is then connected to the small intestine.

Risks and Complications[edit | edit source]

Like any surgical procedure, a gastrectomy carries certain risks and potential complications. These may include:

Infection
Bleeding
Nutritional deficiencies
Weight loss
Dumping syndrome, a condition where food moves too quickly from the stomach to the small intestine.

Recovery[edit | edit source]

Recovery from a gastrectomy can take several weeks. Patients may need to follow a special diet and take nutritional supplements. Regular follow-up appointments with the healthcare provider are also necessary.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Gastrectomy Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? Need help finding a doctor or specialist anywhere in the world? Explore our world directory. WikiMD's DocFinder can assist you in locating millions of physicians.	Medical Knowledge Access the latest research - Most recent articles Ongoing trials.