Stomach Cancer Treatment
Surgery is the most effective method for treating stomach cancer. During surgical intervention, the cancerous tumor tissue, usually the entire stomach, and the lymph nodes where the tumor may have spread are removed. If the tumor is at an advanced stage, chemotherapy may be required before surgery. Chemotherapy helps shrink the tumor, making surgery possible.
Additionally, laparoscopic surgery can be used for benign tumors of the stomach. Laparoscopic surgery is performed through smaller incisions, which can speed up the recovery process and help the patient return to normal life more quickly.
After Surgery
After surgery, if the entire stomach is removed, the small intestine is connected to the esophagus to allow food to pass from the mouth through the esophagus into the small intestine. Since the stomach is no longer present, patients will need to adjust their eating habits; they will need to eat small amounts more frequently. Additionally, due to the absence of the stomach, the absorption of iron and vitamin B12 from food becomes impaired. Therefore, patients will need to take these nutrients as regular supplements, usually on a monthly basis.
TREATMENTS
