What is gastric cancer?
Gastric cancer is a tumor that originates in the cells lining the stomach. It can affect different parts of the stomach and its treatment depends on the location, stage and characteristics of the tumor.
Types of surgery
Partial Gastrectomy
Part of the stomach is removed (usually the lower portion). The remaining part is connected to the small intestine. Preserves some gastric function.
Total Gastrectomy
The entire stomach is removed. The esophagus is connected directly to the small intestine. Required when the tumor affects a large part of the stomach.
Both surgeries include removal of nearby lymph nodes (lymphadenectomy) to analyze them and determine if the cancer has spread.
Neoadjuvant treatment
In many cases of gastric cancer, treatment before surgery (neoadjuvant) is recommended:
- Chemotherapy: 3-4 cycles before surgery to reduce the tumor.
- Benefits: Reduces tumor size, facilitates surgery, treats possible micrometastases.
- Then: More chemotherapy cycles usually after surgery.
Your oncologist will explain the treatment plan specific to your case.
Life without a stomach
If you need a total gastrectomy, it is natural to worry about life without a stomach. The good news is that you can live a normal life with some adaptations:
- You can eat normally: But in smaller quantities and more frequently.
- Nutritional adaptation: Your body will learn to digest food differently.
- Supplements: You will need vitamin B12 (injections) and possibly iron and calcium.
- Initial weight loss: It is normal to lose weight at first, but most stabilize.
Dumping Syndrome
It is common after gastric surgery, especially in the first months:
- Occurs when food passes too quickly to the small intestine
- Symptoms: nausea, sweating, palpitations, diarrhea after eating
- It improves with time and dietary adaptations
- Avoid sugars and very fatty foods
- Eat slowly, chew well
Nutritional recommendations
- Small and frequent meals: 5-6 meals a day instead of 3 large ones.
- Chew well: Take your time eating.
- Drink between meals: Not during, to avoid feeling too full.
- High protein: Meat, fish, eggs, dairy.
- Avoid sugars: Especially on an empty stomach.
- Specialized nutritionist: A professional will guide your adaptation.
Recovery
Recovery after gastrectomy is a gradual process:
- Hospitalization: 7-10 days usually.
- Liquid diet: It starts after a few days.
- Gradual progression: From liquids to soft to normal.
- Full adaptation: 3-6 months to find your new normal.
Do you have questions about your treatment?
Our team can evaluate your case and explain the treatment options for gastric cancer.
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