Is Surgery Necessary for Gastric Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs)?
When it comes to treating gastric gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), the decision to operate largely depends on the tumor's size and location. For tumors located in the stomach that are 2 cm or smaller, surgery is typically not required. In such cases, doctors usually recommend regular monitoring and follow-up exams to ensure the tumor does not grow or change over time.
However, if the tumor is larger than 2 cm, surgical removal is generally advised. Thanks to advances in medical technology, most patients can now undergo minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery. This approach allows for a partial gastrectomy—removing only the affected portion of the stomach—without the need for extensive tissue removal. As a result, patients can retain most of their stomach function, which helps maintain normal eating habits and overall quality of life.
One of the major advantages of surgery is that it provides a complete tissue sample for pathological analysis. Through this, doctors can determine the tumor's size, mitotic rate, and location—all of which are crucial in assessing the tumor's malignancy level and guiding further treatment decisions.
After surgery, if the tumor is classified as low-risk, no additional targeted therapy is usually necessary. However, for intermediate- or high-risk cases, post-operative targeted therapy is highly recommended to reduce the likelihood of recurrence.
In conclusion, surgery plays a vital role in both the diagnosis and treatment of gastric GISTs. It not only helps determine the exact nature and risk level of the tumor but also significantly improves long-term outcomes, especially when combined with appropriate follow-up care.