The stomach is an organ in the digestive system situated between the esophagus and the small intestine. Its primary function is to perform mechanical and chemical breakdown of the food, store it, and transfer it in controlled portions to the small intestine for absorption.
Gastrectomy Surgery
Gastrectomy surgery is usually performed due to conditions such as stomach tumors, polyps that cannot be removed endoscopically, or severe bleeding that cannot be managed through other treatments.
The surgical procedure can involve either complete removal of the stomach or partial removal, depending on the surgical indications.
The surgery can be carried out using an "open" approach or a laparoscopic approach, in which the abdominal cavity is inflated with gas, and small incisions are made on the abdomen to insert a camera and delicate instruments for the surgery while observing the process on a video screen.
The choice of surgical approach depends on the patient's condition, anatomy, previous surgeries, the extent of the disease, and the surgeon's experience with different methods. In some cases, the surgeon may need to switch to an "open" approach during the laparoscopic procedure due to technical difficulties or other reasons.
Preoperative Preparation
Before the surgery, several tests need to be conducted, including blood tests, chest X-rays, an electrocardiogram (ECG), and other tests as required. You will also need approval from your treating physician regarding your health condition and approvals from other specialized doctors based on your medical history.
Bowel preparation instructions will be provided before the surgery, which will take place in the surgical department on the 8th floor.
On the Day of Surgery
On the day of surgery, you will receive antibiotics and a sedative before entering the operating room. Your family members can accompany you to the reception area of the operating rooms.
A waiting area for families during surgery is available near the urology institute, next to the recovery department.
In the operating room, a nurse, an anesthesiologist, and the surgeon will be present during the procedure, which typically lasts between three to five hours.
Anesthesia
General anesthesia will be administered through an injection and inhalation of gas through a mask. In some cases, epidural anesthesia is also used to reduce the amount of general anesthesia during surgery and to alleviate pain after the procedure. An epidural catheter may be inserted before the general anesthesia and will remain for three days.
After the Surgery
Following the surgery, you will be transferred to the recovery department, where you will stay for the first few hours after the procedure. The surgeon will meet with your family members and provide them with updates on the surgery results, usually after a few hours. Depending on your condition, you will then be transferred to the surgical department for further treatment.
Recovery and Length of Hospital Stay
Recovery time in the hospital typically ranges from one to two weeks, depending on the absence of complications.
Economic Aspects
After gastrectomy surgery, the digestive system must adapt to the new condition in which food directly passes to the small intestine. Special dietary adjustments might be necessary to support digestion and overall well-being.
Possible Complications During or After Surgery
Possible complications include bleeding, infection, leakage of digestive content, and the formation of hernias in the surgical incision area.
After being discharged from the hospital, you should consult a doctor if you experience any of the following:
- High fever above 38.5°C or chills.
- Redness, swelling, worsening pain, discharge, or any other abnormalities in the surgical area.
- Persistent uncontrollable nausea and vomiting despite prescribed medications.
- Pain that cannot be controlled with painkillers.
Wishing you a complete recovery and speedy healing!