What Types of Stomach Cancer Are Suitable for Minimally Invasive Surgery?

Minimally invasive surgery has rapidly evolved in recent years and has become a preferred choice for many patients due to its benefits, including reduced trauma, faster recovery, and improved postoperative quality of life. Generally, patients with early-stage or locally advanced gastric cancer are considered suitable candidates for this type of procedure.

Endoscopic Resection for Early-Stage Gastric Cancer
Endoscopic resection is primarily recommended for patients with early-stage gastric cancer, where the tumor is confined to the mucosal layer. This procedure involves removing the lesion through an endoscope without the need for open surgery. Since the risk of lymph node metastasis is relatively low at this stage, a more extensive operation such as a partial gastrectomy with lymph node dissection is usually unnecessary.

Laparoscopic Resection for Locally Advanced Gastric Cancer
When the tumor has progressed beyond the mucosa and invaded the submucosal layer, the likelihood of regional lymph node involvement increases. In such cases, laparoscopic resection is often the preferred approach. This technique allows for precise removal of the primary tumor along with a comprehensive lymph node dissection, which can lead to a curative outcome.

Limitations and Considerations
It's important to note that not all gastric cancers are suitable for minimally invasive techniques. In advanced cases where the tumor has extensively invaded surrounding tissues or formed large lymph node clusters, laparoscopic surgery may pose a higher risk of iatrogenic dissemination. These situations often require traditional open surgery to ensure safe and effective treatment.

In summary, patient selection is crucial when considering minimally invasive surgery for gastric cancer. A thorough evaluation by a multidisciplinary team is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment strategy based on the stage and biological behavior of the tumor.