In what cases is surgery recommended for stomach cancer patients?

Doctor's Answers 1

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Dr Stephen Chang

General Surgeon

As per all cancers, the earlier the stage of the cancer, the higher the chance of cure. In stomach cancer, it is no different.

If stomach cancer is in the early stages where there is no spread of cancer to the surrounding tissues or to distant sites, surgery offers the best chance of cure. An exception is when the cancer is detected in the very early stages where the cancer involvement is very shallow. In such very early stages, a curative option will include an endoscopic resection of the cancer.

When the cancer has spread to the regional lymph nodes, surgery is still a good option to be taken together with chemotherapy treatment.

When the disease has spread to the abdominal cavity or to distant sites, surgical resection is usually not the first choice. Unless complications arise such as uncontrollable bleeding from the cancer or when there is an obstruction to food passage or when there is an acute perforation, then surgery may be entertained. However, in such situations, the aim is not to achieve cure through surgery but mainly to manage the complications.

Similar Questions

Are there conditions or diagnoses that can be confused with stomach cancer because of similar symptoms?

Yes. As I mentioned, some of the symptoms can be very subtle. You may not be having symptoms. Some people have ulcers, some have gallstones, and they experience bloating. Occasionally people have food poisoning. It’s really figuring out what is what. Unfortunately, at times like this, it’s very difficult to decide. We, as a professional, would say “okay, what are the chances of this being a stomach cancer, what’s the chance of it being something completely different? ” So it’s really taking the context into consideration.

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Answered By

Dr Yuk Man Kan

General Surgeon

Can stomach cancer only be detected through screening?

In a sense, yes. It’s really trying to say “this is persisting”. You go and see a GP and are given the normal remedies. If all the bloating hasn’t resolved after a week or two and the acid reflux is still there even after taking the acid medication, those are the warning signs. Subsequently, the GP needs to send you for screening regardless of age or family history. If it’s persistent, you should just go and have it seen to.

Photo of Dr Yuk Man Kan

Answered By

Dr Yuk Man Kan

General Surgeon

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