Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery

Creator: Prof. Dr. Bahadır Külah
Published: 2024-04-25T10:10:26+03:00

At A Life Health Group, we aim to provide the highest quality healthcare to patients of all ages. Gastrointestinal cancer surgery is a procedure used to treat cancers occurring in the digestive system (stomach, esophagus, small intestine, colon, rectum, and anus). This procedure aims to remove the cancer and prevent the spread of the disease.

What is Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery?

Gastrointestinal cancer surgery involves the surgical removal of cancerous tissues in the digestive system. This procedure is performed to prevent the spread of cancer, reduce pain, and improve the patient’s quality of life. The surgical approach varies depending on the location of the cancer and is typically planned by considering the tumor’s size, location, stage, and the patient’s overall health.

Who is Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery Performed For?

Gastrointestinal cancer surgery may be recommended in the following situations:

Removal of Cancerous Tumors: Surgery can be performed to remove cancer, prevent its spread, and increase life expectancy.
Biopsy of Cancerous Tissue: A biopsy may be done to confirm the diagnosis and guide the treatment plan.
Stopping Tumor Growth: Surgical intervention can help halt tumor growth and alleviate associated symptoms.
Improving Patient Quality of Life: Surgery can reduce pain, make swallowing easier, and improve bowel function, thereby enhancing the patient’s overall quality of life.

Types of Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery

Gastrointestinal cancer surgery varies depending on the location of the cancer:

Esophageal Cancer: Surgery performed to remove cancerous tissues in the esophagus.
Stomach Cancer: Surgery performed to remove cancerous tissues in the stomach.
Small Intestine Cancer: Surgery performed to remove cancerous tissues in the small intestine.
Colon Cancer: Surgery performed to remove cancerous tissues in the colon.
Rectal Cancer: Surgery performed to remove cancerous tissues in the rectum (the final part of the large intestine).
Anal Cancer: Surgery performed to remove cancerous tissues in the anus.

How Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery Is Performed

Gastrointestinal cancer surgery is generally performed under general anesthesia. The surgical approach depends on the location of the cancer. The main methods include open surgery, laparoscopic surgery, or robotic surgery:

Open Surgery: The surgeon makes a large incision in the abdomen to access the affected area and remove the cancerous tissues.
Laparoscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive technique in which small incisions are made in the abdomen to insert a camera and surgical instruments.
Robotic Surgery: Similar to laparoscopic surgery, but the procedure is performed using robotic arms for greater precision.

Recovery Process After Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery

The recovery process after gastrointestinal cancer surgery varies depending on the type and extent of the procedure. Typically, patients are required to stay in the hospital for several days to monitor healing and manage any immediate postoperative needs.

Postoperative Care Guidelines:

Take prescribed medications regularly: Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
Continue physical therapy: Postoperative rehabilitation programs are personalized by your physiotherapist.
Maintain a healthy diet: Follow a diet plan recommended by your doctor.
Attend regular check-ups: Ensure you visit your doctor as scheduled for follow-up evaluations.

Postoperative Complaints After Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery:

Pain: Abdominal pain is normal after surgery and can be managed with prescribed painkillers.
Nausea and Vomiting: These may occur in the postoperative period.
Constipation: Patients may experience constipation after surgery.
Diarrhea: Some patients may experience diarrhea postoperatively.
Wound Healing Issues: Problems such as infection or wound opening at the surgical site may occur.

Risks of Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery:

Like any surgical procedure, gastrointestinal cancer surgery carries certain risks, including:

Bleeding: There is a risk of bleeding after surgery.
Infection: Postoperative infections may occur.
Wound Healing Problems: Issues such as infection or wound opening at the surgical site can arise.
Impaired Bowel Function: Digestive system problems may occur after surgery.
Complications: Other complications related to the surgical procedure may also arise.

Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery at A Life Health Group

Experienced Medical Team: A Life Health Group has a team of experienced physicians specialized in general surgery and oncology.
State-of-the-Art Technology: Gastrointestinal cancer surgeries are performed using the latest technology.
Safe and Comfortable Environment: Patients receive treatment in a secure and comfortable setting.
Personalized Treatment: Tailored treatment plans are prepared for each patient.
Affordable Prices: A Life Health Group provides services at reasonable costs.

At A Life Health Group, we are here to determine the best treatment option for you and guide you through the gastrointestinal cancer surgery process. We look forward to seeing you!

Prepared by A Life Medical Editorial Board.

Last Updated: 6 Kasım 2025 14:05

Publish Date: 25 Nisan 2024 10:10