The treatment for gastric cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer, the location of the tumor and the general health of the patient. Surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy can be used as single treatment modalities or in combination.
Surgery
There are a variety of operations that can be performed for gastric cancer depending on the size and location of the tumor.
Gastric cancer in the upper part of the stomach: If the cancer involves the upper part of the stomach but not the esophagus, then a partial gastrectomy (that removes the upper part of the stomach) and connection of the esophagus with the remaining stomach can be done. This usually involves removing approximately 20-40% of the stomach. If the cancer involves the GE junction a total esophagectomy and partial upper gastrectomy may be required.
Gastric cancer in the lower part of the stomach: If the cancer is in the lower part of the stomach the main issue is how much of the stomach will need to be removed. The remaining stomach will be connected to the small intestine.
Total gastrectomy: The entire stomach is removed and the esophagus is connected to the small intestine. Because there is no remaining stomach, there is no reservoir for food. This presents special nutritional demands and all these patients need to work closely with our dietitian.
Feeding tubes: Patients require nutritional support following any of the operations for upper gastrointestinal cancers. Temporary feeding tubes are placed at the time of the surgery and are helpful in maintaining weight in the weeks following surgery.
Aside from surgery the treatment modalities for gastric cancer are similar to those used in esophageal cancer.
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