Gastric Cancer Early Stage Postoperative Care Tips

After undergoing surgery for early-stage gastric cancer, patients should pay close attention to both in-hospital recovery and post-discharge care to ensure a smooth healing process and reduce the risk of complications.

Monitoring During Hospitalization
While the success rate of gastric cancer surgery is relatively high, some patients may experience postoperative complications such as anastomotic leakage, bleeding, intra-abdominal infection, or pulmonary infection. Medical staff will closely monitor these potential issues during the hospital stay. If an anastomotic leak occurs, it is often indicated by cloudy drainage fluid from the abdominal cavity, which requires anti-inflammatory treatment and thorough drainage. In cases of lung infection, chest physiotherapy and antibiotic adjustments are typically necessary, while any signs of internal bleeding require immediate medical intervention.

Nutrition And Diet After Discharge
Once discharged, patients will need to adapt to a reduced stomach capacity. Initially, it's recommended to consume soft, semi-liquid foods such as porridge, noodles, dumplings, and wontons. Eating habits should also change—instead of the traditional three meals a day, patients are advised to eat 6–7 smaller meals to accommodate the stomach's new capacity and promote better digestion.

Gradual Return To Normal Diet
About one month after surgery, most patients can slowly transition from semi-liquid meals back to regular soft foods, provided there are no adverse symptoms. However, it's essential to continue focusing on nutrient-dense, easily digestible meals and avoid overly spicy, fatty, or processed foods during the recovery phase.

By following these guidelines, patients can support their recovery, reduce the likelihood of complications, and improve overall postoperative outcomes.