Living Without a Stomach: What Happens After Total Gastrectomy

The stomach plays a vital role in the digestive system, and unfortunately, it is not capable of regeneration. After a total gastrectomy, a new stomach does not grow back. Instead, surgeons create a substitute pouch using a portion of the small intestine, known as the jejunum. This reconstructed organ serves as a reservoir for food, allowing patients to continue eating and digesting nutrients effectively.

Following surgery, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial. Patients should avoid excessive alcohol consumption and limit intake of spicy or irritating foods, preserved meals, strong tea, and coffee. Adopting healthy eating habits significantly improves long-term recovery and overall digestive health. Additionally, practicing good hygiene, such as using separate utensils during meals, can help reduce the risk of infections that may lead to stomach complications.

Chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer sufferers should seek medical attention promptly. Timely treatment prevents these conditions from progressing into more severe issues, such as stomach cancer. In cases where gastric cancer is diagnosed at a late stage, a total gastrectomy may become necessary.

Prevention is key to avoiding serious gastric diseases. Regular medical checkups, a balanced diet, and a healthy lifestyle are essential for maintaining good stomach health and reducing cancer risk. Understanding the signs and symptoms of gastric issues can lead to early diagnosis and better treatment outcomes.