Stomach cancer treatment usually centres on surgery to remove the tumour, often alongside chemotherapy. Dr. Pavan Addala, GI oncology surgeon at Medicover Hospitals, Secunderabad, treats stomach cancer surgically, including laparoscopic total gastrectomy.
Stomach (gastric) cancer most commonly develops in the lining of the stomach and can spread deeper into the stomach wall and to nearby lymph nodes or other organs if not caught early. It's often linked to chronic stomach inflammation.
Early stomach cancer often causes no symptoms at all, which is part of why persistent symptoms deserve proper evaluation.
Diagnosis typically starts with an upper endoscopy, followed by imaging (CT scan) to check the extent of any cancer found and whether it has spread.
When surgery is appropriate, it typically means removing part or all of the stomach along with nearby lymph nodes, frequently combined with chemotherapy before surgery, after surgery, or both. Dr. Addala presented his experience with laparoscopic D2 total gastrectomy at APASICON 2018. A laparoscopic approach, where appropriate, can mean a smaller incision and faster recovery. For suitable cases, gastrectomy may also be performed using a robotic-assisted approach.
Life after gastrectomy involves real dietary adjustments, particularly smaller, more frequent meals and, in some cases, vitamin B12 supplementation. Hospital stay is typically around a week, with fuller recovery over the following weeks.
Like any major abdominal surgery, gastrectomy carries risks including bleeding, infection, and leakage at the surgical reconnection site, along with longer-term nutritional considerations given the stomach's role in digestion. These are discussed individually based on your case, and the surgical team's experience with the procedure directly affects how well these risks are managed.
A stomach cancer diagnosis, and the choice between partial and total gastrectomy, or the sequencing of chemotherapy and surgery, is a significant decision. A second opinion is a reasonable step before finalising a plan.
Book a second-opinion consultation →Not necessarily — depends on where the cancer is and how extensive it is.
Laparoscopic techniques are an established option in appropriately selected cases.
Involves real dietary adjustments, particularly smaller, more frequent meals. Most patients adapt over time.
Outcomes depend heavily on stage at diagnosis. Earlier-stage cancer caught before spreading has meaningfully better outcomes.
Chronic H. pylori infection is a recognised risk factor over time, though most people with it never develop cancer.
Cost depends on the extent of surgery, hospital stay, and any complications. Most insurance plans cover cancer surgery when medically indicated — confirm specifics with your insurer.
Before finalising a treatment plan. Dr. Addala's team offers second-opinion consultations for patients who can't travel to Hyderabad immediately.
A new stomach cancer diagnosis, or persistent digestive symptoms, deserve prompt evaluation.
