What is a gastrectomy and why is it necessary?
A gastrectomy is the surgical removal of all or part of the stomach. It is performed as treatment for stomach cancer, noncancerous polyps, gastric ulcers or a hole (perforation) in the stomach wall. The stomach is the digestive organ that is connected between the esophagus and the small intestine. Food enters the stomach through the esophagus where it is broken down and then transferred to the small intestine where the nutrients are absorbed. If a partial gastrectomy is performed, only a portion of the stomach is removed. If the entire stomach is removed, the esophagus will be connected directly to the small intestine. Dietary changes may be necessary to help the body adapt to changes in the digestive tract.
