About Stomach Cancer
Key Highlights
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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.
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Typical hospital stay: 7-14 days
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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.
Top-rated hospitals in India with surgical oncology departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform stomach cancer. MediFyr helps you compare surgical oncologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
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 |
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.
- 9 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar, Bhubaneshwar
- 11 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 39 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 20 Years Experience
- Surgical Oncologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore