When it is recommended
Most commonly for gastric cancer (particularly cancers of the lower stomach), but also for chronic ulcers that have not healed with medical therapy, some benign tumours and selected strictures. The extent of the operation depends on where the disease sits.
How the operation is performed
Laparoscopic or open, depending on tumour size, location and patient factors. The diseased portion of the stomach (usually the lower two-thirds) is removed along with the surrounding fat and lymph nodes.
The remaining stomach is reconnected either directly to the duodenum (Billroth I) or to a loop of small bowel (Billroth II or Roux-en-Y), depending on the situation.
Recovery
Hospital stay is typically 6–8 days. Diet begins with sips of water and advances gradually, with small, frequent meals for the first several months. A dietitian meets every patient before discharge.
Long-term nutrition
Vitamin B12, iron and occasionally vitamin D supplementation may be needed long-term after gastric resection. Annual blood tests track levels. Most patients adapt well and return to a good quality of life.