What is a total gastrectomy for stomach cancer?

Dr. Daniel R. Spogen, MD on behalf of Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine

Family Practitioner

A total gastrectomy for stomach cancer is when the entire stomach is removed in order to remove the cancer.

Penn Medicine

Surgery for stomach cancer offers the best possibility for a cure. The entire stomach is removed in a total gastrectomy, as well as parts of the esophagus, small intestine, lymph nodes and nearby tissues. The esophagus is then connected to the small intestine. This procedure may be done when the stomach cancer is larger or has spread.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Gastrointestinal Cancer

Caused by tumors that grow slowly in our digestive system, gastrointestinal cancers can affect the appendix, stomach, small intestine, colon and rectum. With no known cause, the tumors that cause these cancers usually do not show symptoms until after they have spread. See your doctor if you have shortness of breath, abdominal discomfort or bloating, rectal bleeding or bowel obstruction. You are at greater risk for developing gastrointestinal cancers if you have a family history of the cancers, are older than 50 or have other gastric problems, such as gastritis. Tumors called carcinoids and non-carcinoids cause cancer in the gastrointestinal tract, which houses the stomach and the intestines. Most carcinoid tumors are found in the tip of the appendix, which is attached to the large intestines. Tumors are often found when a person is treated for appendicitis or a doctor notices it accidentally in a CT scan. Aggressive treatments, such as surgery, are needed for large tumors.

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