Learn about Stomach Cancer Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Stomach Cancer and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer surgery, performed by a specialized surgical oncologist, is a major procedure aimed at removing cancerous tissue from the stomach to treat gastric cancer. The specific operation, such as a gastrectomy (partial or total removal of the stomach), is tailored to the tumor's location, size, and stage. The goal is to achieve complete tumor resection with clear margins while preserving as much healthy digestive function as possible. This surgery is often a critical component of a multidisciplinary treatment plan, which may include chemotherapy or radiation therapy before or after the operation to improve outcomes and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Key Highlights

    Curative intent for localized stomach cancer.Performed by highly specialized surgical oncologists with expertise in gastrointestinal cancers.Can be performed using minimally invasive techniques (laparoscopic or robotic) for select patients, leading to smaller incisions and potentially faster recovery.Aims to remove the tumor with clear margins to prevent local recurrence.Often part of a comprehensive treatment plan combined with other therapies.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Diagnosis of adenocarcinoma or other malignant tumors of the stomach.
  • Localized cancer (Stages I, II, and some Stage III) where complete surgical removal is possible.
  • To relieve symptoms like bleeding, obstruction, or severe pain in advanced cases (palliative surgery).
  • After neoadjuvant therapy (chemotherapy/radiation) to shrink the tumor before surgery.
  • Prophylactic surgery in very high-risk individuals with specific genetic syndromes (e.g., Hereditary Diffuse Gastric Cancer).

How to prepare

  • Comprehensive pre-operative evaluation including blood tests, imaging (CT scan, PET-CT, endoscopy), and cardiac/pulmonary assessment.
  • Nutritional counseling and possible dietary supplements to improve strength before surgery.
  • Discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) as advised by the surgical team.
  • Bowel preparation may be required.
  • Fasting for 8-12 hours prior to the procedure.
  • Discussion of anesthesia and post-operative pain management plan.

Risks & possible complications

  • General surgical risks: Bleeding, infection, blood clots (deep vein thrombosis), and adverse reactions to anesthesia.
  • Specific risks: Leakage from the surgical connection (anastomotic leak), injury to nearby organs (spleen, pancreas, liver).
  • Long-term digestive issues: Dumping syndrome, reflux, malabsorption of nutrients, vitamin deficiencies (especially B12).
  • Risk of recurrence of cancer.
  • Need for additional surgeries or interventions in case of complications.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Initial hospital stay for monitoring, pain management, and gradual introduction of liquids.
  • Diet progresses slowly from clear liquids to pureed foods and eventually to small, frequent meals.
  • Activity is gradually increased; heavy lifting is restricted for several weeks.
  • Regular follow-up appointments to monitor healing, nutritional status, and for surveillance scans.
  • Long-term dietary modifications and possible vitamin supplementation are often necessary.
  • Emotional support and possibly joining a support group are recommended for coping.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 7-14 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 4-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full adaptation to new digestive pattern

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering stomach cancer in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for stomach cancer compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India INR 250 Thousand – 800 Thousand 7-14 days ~ 4-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full adaptation to new digestive pattern Know More
Turkey TRY 875 Thousand – 2.8 Million 7-14 days ~ 4-8 weeks for initial recovery; 3-6 months for full adaptation to new digestive pattern Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

Pari Khan, a 58-year-old former schoolteacher...

Pari Khan, a 58-year-old former schoolteacher from a close-knit family, had been ignoring persistent indigestion and a vague feeling of fullness, attributing it to stress and aging. When she began losing weight without trying and noticed dark, tarry stools, her daughter insisted she see a doctor. An endoscopy revealed a tumor in her stomach. Her surgical oncologist, Dr. Chen, explained that due to the tumor's size and location, a subtotal gastrectomy (removal of part of the stomach) was the best chance for a cure. Pari was terrified, fearing the surgery and the change to her life, especially around food and family meals, which were central to her culture. The surgery was successful, and the initial pathology was promising. Her recovery in the hospital was difficult, managing pain and learning to eat tiny, frequent meals. At home, supported by her family, she gradually regained strength. Emotionally, she moved from a place of fear and denial to cautious optimism. While she mourns the loss of her 'normal' stomach and struggles with dietary adjustments, she feels profound gratitude for her care team and a renewed appreciation for each day with her grandchildren.

Surgical Oncologists for Stomach Cancer

Explore experienced surgical oncologists who regularly perform stomach cancer and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Nitish Ranjan Acharya
  • 9 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar

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Dr. Devesh S. Ballal
  • 11 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

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Dr. Lakshmanan C.
  • 39 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Manjunath N. M. L.
  • 20 Years Experience
  • Surgical Oncologist
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated