A minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopic gastrectomy is performed to remove part or all of the stomach. The procedure is performed with a laparoscope and several small incisions in the abdomen.
Also Known As:
- Laparoscopy
- Laparoscopic surgery
- Gastrectomy
- Stomach surgery
Conditions Treated with a Laparoscopic Gastrectomy:
Laparoscopic gastrectomy is performed in order to treat conditions such as stomach ulcers and stomach bleeding. It is also used to treat cancer and benign tumors located in the stomach.
There are no non-surgical alternatives to laparoscopic gastrectomy. Open gastrectomy may be performed as a surgical alternative.
Anesthesia with a Laparoscopic Gastrectomy:
Laparoscopic gastrectomy is performed under general anesthesia, which means that the patient is asleep and completely unaware during the procedure.
Potential Complications from a Laparoscopic Gastrectomy:
Possible risks following laparoscopic gastrectomy include bleeding, infection and a negative reaction to the anesthesia. Other potential complications include blood clotting, injury to nearby organs, dumping syndrome, malabsorption, incisional hernia and pernicious anemia.
Prognosis after a Laparoscopic Gastrectomy:
Laparoscopic gastrectomy has a high rate of potential complications. Approximately seven to ten percent of patients die during the postoperative stage.
Recovery from a Laparoscopic Gastrectomy:
Recovery from laparoscopic gastrectomy can take anywhere from several weeks to several months.