Our Summary

This research paper is a review of the effectiveness and safety of a procedure called “fast track surgery” (FTS) when combined with laparoscopic surgery for gastric cancer.

The researchers collected and analyzed data from six different studies, which involved a total of 464 patients. They found that patients who underwent FTS had shorter hospital stays, experienced less inflammation (as indicated by lower levels of C-reactive protein), and had lower hospital bills. However, there was no significant difference in operation time, blood loss during surgery, or postoperative complications between the FTS group and those who received conventional care.

In conclusion, the study suggests that FTS is a safe and effective method for treating gastric cancer, but more research is needed to confirm these results.

FAQs

  1. What is “fast track surgery” (FTS) in relation to gastric cancer?
  2. What were the benefits found for patients who underwent FTS compared to conventional care?
  3. Did the study find any significant difference in operation time, blood loss, or postoperative complications between FTS and conventional surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A doctor might tell a patient undergoing gastrectomy to follow a specific diet plan to help aid in the healing process and prevent complications. They may recommend eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding certain foods that may be difficult to digest, and staying hydrated. Additionally, the doctor may advise the patient to gradually increase their physical activity as they recover to help improve their overall well-being. It is important for the patient to closely follow their doctor’s instructions and attend all follow-up appointments to monitor their progress.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended gastrectomy include those with early-stage gastric cancer that has not spread to other organs, as well as those with certain types of stomach tumors or precancerous conditions. Additionally, patients who have not responded well to other treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy may also be candidates for gastrectomy. It is important for patients to discuss their individual situation with their healthcare provider to determine if gastrectomy is the best treatment option for them.

Timeline

Before gastrectomy:

  1. Patient is diagnosed with gastric cancer and consults with a medical team to discuss treatment options.
  2. Patient undergoes preoperative assessments and tests to determine their overall health and fitness for surgery.
  3. Patient receives a detailed explanation of the gastrectomy procedure, potential risks and benefits, and postoperative care instructions.
  4. Patient may undergo prehabilitation to optimize their physical and mental health before surgery.

After gastrectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes laparoscopic gastrectomy procedure to remove part or all of the stomach.
  2. Patient is closely monitored in the hospital for any complications or side effects of surgery.
  3. Patient begins a gradual transition to a liquid diet, followed by a soft diet, to allow the stomach to heal.
  4. Patient receives education on dietary modifications and lifestyle changes to manage the changes in digestion and absorption after gastrectomy.
  5. Patient attends regular follow-up appointments with their medical team to monitor their progress and address any concerns or complications.

Overall, the timeline before and after gastrectomy involves a comprehensive approach to patient care, including preoperative evaluations, surgery, postoperative recovery, and long-term management of the effects of gastrectomy on digestion and overall health.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is the purpose of a gastrectomy and why is it being recommended for me?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with gastrectomy?
  3. How long is the recovery process after gastrectomy and what can I expect during this time?
  4. Will I need to make any dietary or lifestyle changes after the surgery?
  5. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that I should consider before proceeding with gastrectomy?
  6. How experienced are you in performing gastrectomy surgeries?
  7. What is the success rate of gastrectomy in treating gastric cancer?
  8. Will I need any additional treatments or follow-up care after the surgery?
  9. How will my quality of life be affected after gastrectomy?
  10. Are there any long-term risks or side effects associated with gastrectomy that I should be aware of?

Reference

Authors: Liu Q, Ding L, Jiang H, Zhang C, Jin J. Journal: Int J Surg. 2018 Feb;50:28-34. doi: 10.1016/j.ijsu.2017.12.026. Epub 2017 Dec 26. PMID: 29288114