Gastrectomy
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HEALTH GUIDE REFERENCE FROM A.D.A.M
Definition
Gastrectomy is surgery to remove part or all of the stomach.
Description
The surgery is done while you are under general anesthesia (unconscious and pain-free). The surgeon makes a cut in the abdomen and removes all or part of the stomach, depending on the reason for the operation. The intestine is then re-connected to the remaining stomach (partial gastrectomy) or to the esophagus (total gastrectomy). After controlling the blood supply, the opening is closed with stitches.
Indications
Gastrectomy is used to treat bleeding, inflammation, non-cancerous tumors, or cancer.
Risks
Risks for any anesthesia include:
- Reactions to medications
- Problems breathing
Risks for any surgery include:
- Bleeding
- Infection
Expectations after surgery
How well a patient does after surgery depends on the underlying condition.
Review Date: 10/16/2006
Reviewed By: J.A. Lee, M.D., Assistant Professor of Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
Reviewed By: J.A. Lee, M.D., Assistant Professor of Surgery, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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